Fin's Fish Guide
The Mousetail knifefish (Gymnorhamphichthys rondoni) is a freshwater fish of the family Rhamphichthyidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The mousetail knifefish is a weakly electric knifefish (Rhamphichthyidae) from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. The species grows to about 15 cm and has an elongate, pale, partly translucent body with a tubular snout and a thin, mouse-tail-like tail tip. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it buries itself in the sand by day and searches for small invertebrates at night with a weak electric organ. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mousetail knifefish?
The Mousetail knifefish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly white.
Where does the Mousetail knifefish live?
The Mousetail knifefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Brazil, Colombia, Guyana, Paraguay, Suriname, Venezuela
How big does the Mousetail knifefish get?
The Mousetail knifefish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Mousetail knifefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Mousetail 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gymnorhamphichthys
More from the family Rhamphichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Mousetail knifefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mousetail knifefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.