Fin's Fish Guide
The Long-snouted ghost knifefish (Sternarchorhamphus muelleri) is a freshwater fish of the family Apteronotidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Description
The long-snouted ghost knifefish is a weakly electric knifefish from the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 46 cm and has an elongate, laterally compressed body with a strikingly long, downcurved snout and a long anal fin with which it swims forwards and backwards in undulating motion. Like all ghost knifefishes it generates a weak electric field used for orientation and communication in turbid water. It is nocturnal. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Long-snouted ghost knifefish?
The Long-snouted ghost knifefish has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Weakly electric; long downward snout and undulating anal fin
Where does the Long-snouted ghost knifefish live?
The Long-snouted ghost knifefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Amazon basin
How big does the Long-snouted ghost knifefish get?
The Long-snouted ghost knifefish grows to a maximum of about 46 cm.
Is the Long-snouted ghost knifefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Long-snouted ghost knifefish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Long-snouted ghost knifefish edible?
The Long-snouted ghost knifefish is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Long-snouted ghost knifefish?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Apteronotidae
Want the complete picture on the Long-snouted ghost knifefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Long-snouted ghost knifefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.