Fin's Fish Guide
The Eigenmannia macrops is a freshwater fish of the family Sternopygidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The bigeye glass knifefish is a weakly electric knifefish of the family Sternopygidae from northern South America. The species reaches about 25 cm and has an elongate, laterally compressed, semi-transparent body without a dorsal fin, with large eyes and a long anal fin with which it swims smoothly forwards and backwards by undulating movements. It generates a weak electric field to orient itself in the dark, detect prey and communicate. It is active at night and hunts insect larvae and small invertebrates. By day it shelters among vegetation or plant debris.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Eigenmannia macrops?
The Eigenmannia macrops has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Weak electric organ; swims forwards and backwards with the long anal fin, without a dorsal fin.
Where does the Eigenmannia macrops live?
The Eigenmannia macrops lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. The north of South America, in the Amazon and Orinoco basins.
How big does the Eigenmannia macrops get?
The Eigenmannia macrops grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 16 cm.
Is the Eigenmannia macrops dangerous to humans?
No, the Eigenmannia macrops is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Eigenmannia macrops edible?
The Eigenmannia macrops is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Eigenmannia
More from the family Sternopygidae
Want the complete picture on the Eigenmannia macrops?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eigenmannia macrops is one of 12,519 species in the app.