Eigenmannia virescens CareSheet

The Glass Knifefish (Eigenmannia virescens) is a beautiful fish that may be found in many South American waters. The translucent, "glasslike" body of this species gives it its name. Despite its resemblance to the well-known Black Ghost Knifefish, this species belongs to a different genus. It's still a knifefish, with the same body structure and movement patterns. This fish moves by using the undulating movement of its extremely large anal fin, and can swim backwards as well as forwards. It is a nocturnal predator that observes its environment and prey by emitting a very faint electrical pulse that is undetectable to other animals that do not emit this pulse.

The Glass Knifefish demands a large aquarium with lots of cover, such as plants, driftwood, rock formations, or plastic or glass tubing. A sandy substrate, as well as floating plants, are ideal. Other fish and invertebrates too big to be considered prey make it a generally peaceful species. Glass Knifefish, unlike many knifefish in the Apteronotus genus, like to be housed and will actively school with conspecifics. It grows to a maximum size of 16 inches, which is comparable to the Black Ghost Knifefish. A 125 gallon tank is suggested, albeit the size of the footprint is more significant than the height. For this predatory fish, powerful filtration and frequent tank care are also required.

The Glass Knifefish eats tiny invertebrates and fish in the wild. Although it has a tiny mouth for a fish of its size, it should not be trusted in an aquarium containing many smaller species and invertebrates. Currently, our specimens are eating a mix of frozen and live meaty feeds, as well as some high-quality dry foods. Check out other types of Clown Knifefish and Black Ghost Knifefish.

Requirements for keeping Eigenmannia virescens

Temperature: 68°- 86° F (20° - 30° C)
pH: 6.0 - 7.5
Minimum tank size: 125+ gallons for a full-grown adult
Origin: Indigenous to Amazon Basin
Average purchase size: 3 - 5 inches