Fin's Fish Guide
The Pig-nosed knifefish (Sternarchogiton porcinum) is a freshwater fish of the family Apteronotidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The pig-nosed knifefish is a weakly electric ghost knifefish (Apteronotidae) from large, deep rivers of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an elongate, laterally compressed body with a strikingly blunt, pig-nosed snout and a long anal fin with which it swims forward and backward in waves. With a weak electric field it navigates the dark, turbid water and searches for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pig-nosed knifefish?
The Pig-nosed knifefish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Pig-nosed knifefish live?
The Pig-nosed knifefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil, Peru, Venezuela
How big does the Pig-nosed knifefish get?
The Pig-nosed knifefish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Pig-nosed knifefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Pig-nosed 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
Want the complete picture on the Pig-nosed knifefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pig-nosed knifefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Apteronotidae
Want the complete picture on the Pig-nosed knifefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pig-nosed knifefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.