Glass Knifefish (Eigenmannia virescens)

Fish in the family Sternopygidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameEigenmannia virescens

FamilySternopygidae

Also known asGreen Knifefish, Glass Knife

Care levelHard

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful

DietCarnivore

Adult size18 in

Minimum tank size75 gallons

Water parametersTemp 73-82°F, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 3-15 dGH

Appearance

Translucent greenish-clear elongated body through which the spine is visible, with a long undulating anal fin and a tapering tail; no dorsal fin.

Difficulty and care for the Glass Knifefish

Hard

Origin and habitat

South America (Amazon and Orinoco)

Keeper notes

One of the few knifefish that tolerates conspecifics and can be kept in groups; peaceful with larger tankmates but eats shrimp and tiny fish. Uses a weak electric field.

Log Glass Knifefish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Glass Knifefish alongside everything else in your reef.

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