
Black Ghost Knifefish (Apteronotus albifrons)
24–28°C · pH 6–7.5 · 500L

A spectacular South Asian featherback for expert keepers with very large aquariums. Clown Knifefish need warm, stable water, cover, heavy filtration and tank mates too large to swallow.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Notopterus chitala
A spectacular South Asian featherback for expert keepers with very large aquariums. Clown Knifefish need warm, stable water, cover, heavy filtration and tank mates too large to swallow.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors
Clown Knifefish (Notopterus chitala) is a spectacular South Asian featherback for expert aquarists with the space and filtration for a true giant. Modern references often list the same fish as Chitala chitala, so this page keeps the live supplier anchor while making the synonym clear for searchers comparing Indian Featherback and Clown Knifefish care.
| Scientific name | Notopterus chitala (also listed as Chitala chitala) |
|---|---|
| Adult size | Very large; plan around 75cm+ potential |
| Minimum aquarium | 1000 litres or larger for long-term care |
| Water | 24-28°C, pH 6.0-8.0, 5-19 dGH |
| Diet | Carnivore: insects, prawns, molluscs and meaty predator foods |
| Temperament | Predatory; tank mates must be robust and too large to swallow |
This is not a small community fish. Provide a long, mature aquarium with dim retreats, open swimming space, a tight cover and oversized filtration. Keep water quality steady and offer varied meaty foods; avoid feeder-fish routines and do not mix with small tetras, shrimp or peaceful nano fish.
Order with clear care guidance. Livestock is packed for a licensed live-animal courier and covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee when the acclimation guidance is followed.

24–28°C · pH 6–7.5 · 500L


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