Elephant Nose Fish

Gnathonemus petersii is one of the most fascinating and intelligent freshwater fish available to hobbyists, generating and detecting weak electrical fields to navigate and communicate. It is a crepuscular and nocturnal species that forages for worms and small invertebrates using its elongated, highly sensitive rostrum. It requires a spacious, dim, well-planted aquarium and prefers the company of its own kind.

Water: 23–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to medium hardness. Tank: Minimum 200L; dimly lit, heavily planted with caves and driftwood; sand substrate. Feeding: Live or frozen bloodworm, tubifex, earthworm pieces, and small invertebrates; reluctant to take dry food. Behaviour: Weakly electric; communicates electrically; can be aggressive to its own species in small spaces. Compatibility: Best with peaceful, non-electric mid or upper water species; avoid Mormyrids in small tanks.