Featherknifefish – Chitala blanci | Wild caught | Elegant, rare large fish from Southeast Asia

The feather knifefish ( Chitala blanci ) is an exceptionally elegant and rare member of the knifefish family from Southeast Asia. With its long, slender body and undulating movement reminiscent of a gliding ribbon, it is a true eye-catcher in any aquarium. Its silvery-bronze coloration and shimmering accents along its sides give it a particularly refined appearance.

In its natural habitat, the large rivers and reservoirs of Southeast Asia, Chitala blanci lives in calm, deep waters with dense vegetation and roots. This species is predominantly crepuscular and nocturnal, peaceful towards similarly sized fish, but predatory towards smaller species.

🌿 Characteristics & Attitude:
🐟 Fish size: XL (approx. 15–20 cm, juvenile)
🌍 Origin: Southeast Asia (Mekong, Chao Phraya, Laos, Thailand) – Wild caught
🌡️ Temperature: 25-30°C
💧 pH value: 6.5–7.8
⚖️ Total hardness: up to 20 °dGH
🐠 Social behavior: Peaceful, territorial, growing large
🏞️ Aquarium: from 1000 liters with sandy substrate, roots, plants & low lighting

🍽️ Feeding:
The feather knifefish is a predator that prefers animal-based food. Frozen and live foods such as mysis shrimp, shrimp, mussel meat, or small fish are readily accepted. Juveniles will also eat fine frozen food and granules. A varied, protein-rich diet promotes vitality and growth.

💡 Tip:
Chitala blanci requires a large, calm aquarium with plenty of hiding places, dim lighting, and soft, clean water. Ideally, it should be kept singly or with other peaceful, robust, large fish of similar size.

👉 Conclusion:
The feather knifefish ( Chitala blanci ) is an elegant, rare, large fish with a unique swimming style – perfect for experienced aquarists with large tanks and a penchant for exotic species.