Glass Knifefish
Eigenmannia virescens
Water Parameters
About
Semi-transparent, greenish knifefish. More sociable than the Black Ghost, can be kept in small groups. Swims with anal fin undulation. Uses a weak electric field for communication and navigation.
Behavior & Temperament
A gregarious, peaceful knifefish that lives in groups in the wild. Uses electrolocation. More social than other knifefish, tolerating conspecifics.
Feeding
Carnivore/Omnivore - bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, insect larvae, microworms. May accept fine flakes. Feed preferably at dusk.
Breeding
Rarely reproduced in captivity. Spawns during the rainy season. Adhesive eggs are deposited on vegetation.
Care Notes
A group of 3+ is recommended. Hideouts (dense plants, driftwood). Gentle to moderate flow. No scales – medication‑sensitive. Subdued lighting.
Compatibility
Peaceful. Can coexist with calm, medium-sized fish. Ideal with larger tetras, corydoras, loricariids. Avoid aggressive fish.
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Eigenmannia virescens |
|---|---|
| Family | Sternopygidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Intermediate |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 35.0 cm (13.8") |
| Min Tank | 200 L (53 gal) |
| Min Group | 3+ |
| Diet | Carnivore/Omnivore - bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, insect larvae, microworms. May accept fine flakes. Feed preferably at dusk. |
| Temperament | A gregarious, peaceful knifefish that lives in groups in the wild. Uses electrolocation. More social than other knifefish, tolerating conspecifics. |
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