Amazon Glass Knifefish 10-15CM (Xenomystus nigri) The Amazon Glass Knifefish is widely distributed across tropical Africa, including regions like the Chad, Congo, Niger, Nile, and Ogowe basins. While it can thrive in various water conditions, it tends to favor calmer areas rich in aquatic plants. As a nocturnal predator, it seeks shelter in dimly lit, protected spots during the day and comes out at night to hunt for crustaceans, insects, snails, and worms. Keeping an African Knifefish is relatively straightforward, as long as certain essential conditions are met. First, this fish can grow quite large and has a rigid body, so a spacious aquarium (at least 4 feet long and a minimum of 18 inches wide) is essential. Additionally, the knifefish needs a variety of shady hiding places, such as wide PVC tubes, sideways flowerpots, stable rocky caves or overhangs, and large pieces of driftwood. The lighting should be kept dim, as these nocturnal fish are sensitive to bright lights; if the tank needs to be well-lit in some areas, include plenty of broad-leaved aquatic plants and floating species to help soften the light. Importantly, there must be dark areas in the tank where the fish can retreat during the day as needed. The substrate should be soft sand to allow the fish to forage safely for food and to prevent the delicate anal fin from getting damaged on sharp gravel. Good filtration, moderate flow, and adequate oxygenation are necessary, along with a regular maintenance routine that includes partial water changes, since these fish are sensitive to high nitrate levels and sudden shifts in water chemistry. Generally, African Knifefish are peaceful with other fish that are large enough not to be eaten overnight, but they can be territorial with their own species and other knifefish, so it’s best to keep only one per tank and avoid mixing with other knifefish species. Suitable tankmates should have a similar temperament and be large enough to avoid being seen as a meal. Pictures are of the fish in stock, if require any more please get in touch all sizes are approx
