Fin's Fish Guide
The Terminal ghost knifefish (Sternarchella terminalis) is a fish of the family Apteronotidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The terminal 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 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 Terminal ghost knifefish?
The Terminal ghost knifefish is mainly brown.
Where does the Terminal ghost knifefish live?
The Terminal ghost knifefish is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Terminal ghost knifefish get?
The Terminal ghost knifefish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Terminal ghost knifefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Terminal 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 Terminal ghost knifefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Terminal ghost knifefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.