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Zebra KnifefishZebra KnifefishFamily: Gymnotidae Gymnotus pedanopterusPhoto © Animal-World: Courtesy ChildsLatest Reader Comment - See More Can an African brown knifefish coexist with a black ghost knifefish? Mark True to its name this striking fish, the Zebra Knifefish, shows a 'zebra' type patterning along the total length of it's body!Zebra Knifefish Contents The Zebra Knifefish is an incredibly beautiful species of knifefish but unfortunately, for now, it is considered to be very rare. A more recently described fish (1994), not much is known about this striking species. The few that have been imported seemed to be hardy and easy to keep. The behavior of their close relative, Gymnotus carapo, is that of a very aggressive fish so this species will probably be best kept singly. For more Information on keeping freshwater fish see: |
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Habitat: Distribution / Background
The Zebra Knifefish was described by Mago-Leccia in 1994. The are found in South America: Southern part of Venezuela, including Territorio Amazonas and south of Estado Apure; also known from tributaries of Rio Negro in Brazil. They have supposedly been found in parts of Peru but these reports are unconfirmed.
- Scientific Name: Gymnotus pedanopterus
- Social Grouping: Solitary - Since it is unknown how these fish get along with others, it is suggested to keep them alone in a species aquarium.
- IUCN Red List: NE - Not Evaluated or not listed
The body of the Zebra Knifefish is somewhat more rounded than flat. It has no dorsal fin but does have an extremely long anal fin starting near the pectoral fin area. This fin can move in an undulating forward or backward motion. The color pattern is 'zebra' like with dark and light clean edged bands extending along the entire length of the body.
This fish also has an electric organ which allows it to generate a very weak electric field around its body. The field helps with a variety of things such as identifying objects in the water, gives it spatial orientation, helps it to navigate, and helps it identify food. Males use an electric 'stereotyped' communication to court females.
- Maximum Size: 11.0 inches (27.94 cm)
- Aquarium Hardiness: Difficult
- Aquarist Experience Level: Intermediate
The Zebra Knifefish are carnivores. Other Carapo species like to eat small fish and meaty fresh or frozen foods and this species probably has similar tastes. They are sensitive to some fish medications such as copper and those containing formalin.
- Diet Type: Carnivore
- Flake Food: No
- Tablet Pellet: Occasionally
- Live foods (fishes, shrimps, worms): Most of Diet
- Meaty Food: All of Diet
- Feeding Frequency: Daily
- Water Changes: Monthly
- Minimum Tank Size: 75 gal (284 L)
- Suitable for Nano Tank: No
- Substrate Type: Any
- Lighting Needs: Low - subdued lighting
- Temperature: 72.0 - 82.0° F (22.2 - 27.8° C)
- Range ph: 6.0-7.0
- Hardness Range: 2 - 12 dGH
- Brackish: No
- Water Movement: Weak
- Water Region: Bottom
The behavior of the Zebra Knifefish is unknown but if they are anything like their close relative, Gymnotus carapo , they should be considered to be very aggressive. If you are lucky enough to be able to find and afford one of these rare beauties, it is suggested that you keep it by itself.
- Venomous: No
- Temperament: Unknown - Probably an aggressive fish if it is similar to other knifefish.
- Compatible with:
- Same species - conspecifics: Unknown
- Peaceful fish (): Unknown
- Aggressive: (): Unknown
- Slow Swimmers & Eaters: (): Unknown
- Shrimps, Crabs, Snails: May be aggressive - If it is a typical knifefish, it hunts at night for worms, crustaceans, insects and snails.
- Plants: Safe
Sexual differences are unknown.
It has not been bred in captivity.
- Ease of Propagation: Unknown
The Zebra Knifefish is very rare.
Animal-World References
Freshwater Fish and Plants
Tropical Fish ~ Freshwater Fish ~ Aquatic Plants
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