Fin's Fish Guide
The Spottail ghost knifefish (Apteronotus caudimaculosus) is a freshwater fish of the family Apteronotidae that grows up to 29 cm.
Description
The spottail ghost knifefish is a weakly electric knifefish (Apteronotidae) from fresh water of the Paraguay and Pantanal region in South America. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate, dark-brown body with pale spots on the tail stalk, a long anal fin along the belly and a small fin on the back of the tail. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it explores turbid water with a weak electric field; the current cannot be felt by humans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spottail ghost knifefish?
The Spottail ghost knifefish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Spottail ghost knifefish live?
The Spottail ghost knifefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil
How big does the Spottail ghost knifefish get?
The Spottail ghost knifefish grows to a maximum of about 29 cm.
Is the Spottail ghost knifefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Spottail 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 Apteronotus
More from the family Apteronotidae
Want the complete picture on the Spottail ghost knifefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spottail ghost knifefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.