The Humboldt's glass knifefish (Eigenmannia humboldtii) is a freshwater fish of the family Sternopygidae that grows up to 49 cm.
Description
Humboldt's glass knifefish is a weakly electric knifefish (Sternopygidae) from fresh water of northwestern South America. The species grows to about 40 cm and has an elongate, semi-translucent, silvery body with a very long anal fin along the belly with which it swims smoothly forwards and backwards. As a nocturnal fish it explores slow rivers and banks with a weak electric field in search of insect larvae and small invertebrates; the current cannot be felt by humans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Humboldt's glass knifefish?
The Humboldt's glass knifefish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Humboldt's glass knifefish live?
The Humboldt's glass knifefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Humboldt's glass knifefish get?
The Humboldt's glass knifefish grows to a maximum of about 49 cm.
Is the Humboldt's glass knifefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Humboldt's glass knifefish is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Eigenmannia
More from the family Sternopygidae
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