Fin's Fish Guide
The Tubesnout knifefish (Platyurosternarchus macrostomus) is a fish of the family Apteronotidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The tubesnout knifefish is a weakly electric knifefish (Apteronotidae) from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an elongate, brown body with a strikingly long, tubular snout and a long anal fin along the belly with which it swims smoothly forwards and backwards. 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 Tubesnout knifefish?
The Tubesnout knifefish is mainly brown.
Where does the Tubesnout knifefish live?
The Tubesnout knifefish is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Tubesnout knifefish get?
The Tubesnout knifefish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Tubesnout knifefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Tubesnout 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
More from the family Apteronotidae
Want the complete picture on the Tubesnout knifefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tubesnout knifefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.