Black Ghost Knifefish For Sale | Apteronotus albifrons

FYI: Some nano fish are a little harder to get a hold of and will take a little longer for us to ship. Please be patient

Bring an incredible and unusual freshwater fish to your aquarium with the Black Ghost Knifefish (Apteronotus albifrons). Famous for its sleek black body, white tail markings, and graceful swimming style, this fascinating fish is a favorite among freshwater aquarium enthusiasts.

Black Ghost Knifefish use a weak electrical field to navigate their surroundings and locate food, giving them unique behavior rarely seen in other aquarium fish. They are primarily nocturnal and often become more active in the evening and after the aquarium lights go out.

At Coast Gem USA, our freshwater fish are carefully selected and packed for safe shipping. Eligible live fish orders are covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

Why Choose a Black Ghost Knifefish?

• Striking black coloration with contrasting white markings
• Unique knife-shaped body
• Fascinating electric-sensing behavior
• Graceful swimming and interesting personality
• Primarily nocturnal and entertaining to observe
• Excellent centerpiece fish for a large freshwater aquarium
• Carefully selected and safely packed by Coast Gem USA

Black Ghost Knifefish Information

• Scientific Name: Apteronotus albifrons
• Common Name: Black Ghost Knifefish
• Origin: South America
• Adult Size: Up to approximately 18–20 inches
• Temperament: Generally peaceful but predatory toward very small fish
• Care Level: Moderate
• Diet: Carnivorous
• Swimming Level: Bottom and middle
• Water Type: Freshwater
• Recommended Aquarium: 100+ gallons for an adult

Black Ghost Knifefish Care

Black Ghost Knifefish require a spacious aquarium with excellent filtration and stable water conditions. Because they can grow large, plan for their adult size rather than keeping them permanently in a small aquarium.

They are naturally shy and prefer aquariums with caves, driftwood, plants, and shaded areas where they can retreat during the day.

A dimly lit aquarium or areas of shade will help them feel comfortable. They are generally more active after dark.

Recommended Water Parameters

• Temperature: 73–82°F
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Ammonia: 0 ppm
• Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: Keep low with regular water changes

Feeding Black Ghost Knifefish

Black Ghost Knifefish are carnivorous and should receive a varied, protein-rich diet.

Suitable foods include:

• Frozen bloodworms
• Frozen brine shrimp
• Blackworms
• Earthworms
• Shrimp
• Sinking carnivore pellets
• Other appropriately sized meaty foods

Feed smaller fish appropriately sized portions and avoid overfeeding to help maintain excellent water quality.

Aquarium Setup

A large, mature aquarium with plenty of hiding places is ideal for Black Ghost Knifefish.

Recommended features include:

• Large caves
• Driftwood
• Smooth rocks
• Live or artificial plants
• Shaded areas
• Open swimming space
• Efficient biological filtration

Provide a secure aquarium lid because large knifefish can occasionally jump.

Black Ghost Knifefish Tank Mates

Black Ghost Knifefish are generally peaceful toward appropriately sized tank mates. However, their eventual size means they should not be housed with fish small enough to be viewed as prey.

Potential tank mates include:

• Large peaceful tetras
• Larger barbs
• Peaceful cichlids
• Gouramis
• Larger catfish
• Plecos
• Other appropriately sized community fish

Avoid aggressive fish that may harass or injure the Black Ghost Knifefish.

Important Size Consideration

Black Ghost Knifefish can grow substantially larger than many aquarium fish. A juvenile may look small when purchased, but it will eventually require a very large aquarium.

Before purchasing, make sure you have a long-term setup capable of supporting an adult fish.

What You’ll Receive

You will receive one Black Ghost Knifefish (Apteronotus albifrons) from our available stock, carefully selected and packed for live shipment.

Eligible live fish orders are covered by Coast Gem USA's Live Arrival Guarantee.

Order Your Black Ghost Knifefish Online

Looking for a Black Ghost Knifefish for sale? Add one of the freshwater hobby's most unique and fascinating fish to your collection. With its striking appearance, unusual swimming style, and electric-sensing abilities, the Black Ghost Knifefish makes an impressive addition to a properly sized aquarium.