Banded Knifefish (Gymnotus carapo)

Fish in the family Gymnotidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameGymnotus carapo

FamilyGymnotidae

Also known asTiger Knifefish, Carapo Knifefish

Care levelHard

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size24 in

Minimum tank size90 gallons

Water parametersTemp 73-82°F, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 4-16 dGH

Appearance

Cylindrical brown body with oblique pale bands, a blunt head, and a long anal fin reaching the tail; no dorsal fin.

Difficulty and care for the Banded Knifefish

Hard

Origin and habitat

Central and South America

Keeper notes

An aggressive, predatory knifefish that eats fish and shrimp and is highly intolerant of other knifefish; keep singly. House only with robust tankmates too large to swallow. Strong jumper.

Log Banded Knifefish in your reef tank

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