Brown Knifefish – Apteronotus leptorhynchus | Wild-caught | Peaceful, electric fish from South America

The brown knifefish ( Apteronotus leptorhynchus ) is an elegant and fascinating freshwater fish from South America, instantly recognizable by its serpentine body and gliding swimming style. This species uses weak electric fields for orientation and communication – a unique behavior that makes it particularly interesting.

In nature , Apteronotus leptorhynchus lives in the quiet, overgrown areas of the Amazon basin. There, it moves silently among roots and plants. In the aquarium, it is usually crepuscular to nocturnal, peaceful, and remarkably intelligent. With its tranquil nature and exceptional swimming behavior, it is a real eye-catcher for any South American aquarium.

🌿 Characteristics & Attitude:
🐟 Fish size: L (approx. 10–14 cm, juvenile)
🌍 Origin: South America (Amazon and Orinoco systems) – Wild caught
🌡️ Temperature: 25-30°C
💧 pH value: 6.0–7.5
⚖️ Total hardness: up to 15 °dGH
🐠 Social behavior: Peaceful, territorial towards other members of the species
🏞️ Aquarium: from 300 liters with fine sand, many hiding places & subdued lighting

🍽️ Feeding:
The brown knifefish prefers frozen and live foods such as brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, krill, or tubifex worms. High-quality, fine granules are also occasionally accepted. A varied, protein-rich diet promotes health, growth, and vibrant coloration.

💡 Tip:
Apteronotus leptorhynchus requires peaceful tank mates and soft, oxygen-rich water. It should never be kept with overly dominant fish. Ideally, the tank should be dimly lit and contain plants, roots, and caves.

👉 Conclusion:
The brown knifefish ( Apteronotus leptorhynchus ) is a peaceful, elegant and intelligent fish with an electric sense of direction – an exceptional inhabitant for tranquil South American aquariums.