Brown Ghost Knifefish

Apteronotus leptorhynchus, sometimes called the Brown Ghost, is native to Colombian and Venezuelan river drainages. It is brownish in colouration with a lighter underside and a noticeably elongated, tapering snout. Like the Black Ghost it generates a wave-type electric organ discharge of relatively high frequency for communication and orientation. It is a larger, more robustly built species that can be more aggressive than its famous cousin. It requires the same pristine water conditions, hiding tubes, and nocturnal feeding approach. Less commonly seen in the hobby than the Black Ghost but highly regarded among knifefish enthusiasts.

Water: 23-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, soft to slightly hard; excellent filtration and oxygenation required. Tank: Minimum 400L; PVC tubes or bamboo hides; low lighting; fine sand substrate. Feeding: Carnivore; frozen/live bloodworms, blackworms, earthworm pieces, brine shrimp; feeds at night. Breeding: Not documented in captivity; presumed seasonal spawner in nature. Compatibility: Territorial toward conspecifics and similar knifefish; peaceful with large dissimilar species.