Gnathonemus petersii
The elephantnose fish is a mormyrid that uses a weak electric field to navigate and find prey—famous for its chin “trunk.” Shy and easily stressed by bright bare tanks or aggressive tankmates. Many standard aquarium medications (especially those with copper or formalin) are risky; research before treating. Soft, acidic to neutral water and excellent maintenance suit wild-type fish best. Not for beginners.
Frozen bloodworm, tubifex, small krill; live blackworm; high-quality sinking carnivore pellets once trained.
Frequency: 1–2× daily
May refuse food for days after shipping—dim lights and patience help.
Native Region: Africa (Niger, Volta, Chad, and related basins)
Slow channels and pools with submerged wood and leaf litter.
Dim lighting; dark substrate; tall plants and wood for security; minimal stray electrical noise from equipment if possible.
Activity Level: Moderate
Explores with extended chin; may squabble with conspecifics over territory in small tanks.
Difficulty: Difficult
Type: Egg scatterer
Sexual Dimorphism: Little visible difference outside possible anal fin shape in adults.
No routine captive breeding; courtship and spawning rarely seen in aquaria.
Substrate: Sand
Plant Safe: Yes
Avoid sharp rocks; caves optional—some fish prefer open sand with overhead cover.
Add this species to a saved tank stocking list.
Signed-in members only. New posts are moderated before everyone can see them — you'll always see your own while they're pending.
Loading…
Loading…