Fin's Fish Guide
The Schott's ghost knifefish (Sternarchella schotti) is a freshwater fish of the family Apteronotidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
Schott's ghost knifefish is a weakly electric knifefish (Apteronotidae) from fresh water of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate, brown body with a long anal fin along the belly and, characteristic of this family, a small fin on the back of the tail stalk. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it explores turbid water with a weak electric field in search of insect larvae; the current cannot be felt by humans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Schott's ghost knifefish?
The Schott's ghost knifefish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Schott's ghost knifefish live?
The Schott's ghost knifefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Brazil, Peru
How big does the Schott's ghost knifefish get?
The Schott's ghost knifefish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Schott's ghost knifefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Schott's 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sternarchella
More from the family Apteronotidae
Want the complete picture on the Schott's ghost knifefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Schott's ghost knifefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.