Tembensis Knifefish

Gymnotus tembensis is a medium-sized gymnotid knifefish native to tributaries of the Tocantins-Araguaia basin in Brazil. Like other members of its genus it bears a banded pattern of alternating light and dark oblique bars that vary in intensity along the body. It produces pulse-type electric organ discharges used for navigation and prey detection in the turbid, vegetated waters it inhabits. It is less well-known in the hobby than G. carapo and tends to be collected and traded sporadically. Care is identical to other Gymnotus species: nocturnal, needs hiding tubes, soft substrate, and clean water with moderate oxygen levels.

Water: 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, soft to moderately hard; clean, well-oxygenated water. Tank: Minimum 200L; PVC tubes and driftwood hides; fine sand; subdued lighting. Feeding: Carnivore; live/frozen bloodworms, earthworms, brine shrimp; primarily nocturnal feeder. Breeding: Not documented in captivity; presumed seasonal egg-layer in nature. Compatibility: Aggressive toward conspecifics; peaceful with dissimilar robust tankmates.