African Black Knifefish (Xenomystus nigri)

The African Black Knifefish is a widespread, medium-growing species found in freshwater streams and swamps throughout much of West and Central Africa. Unlike many other knifefish species, it is a social fish that is typically found in schools and should be kept in groups in the aquarium. The African Black Knifefish is a peaceful species and will generally get along well with all tankmates too large to be prey. In the wild, they are found in a wide variety of habitat types but show a preference for slower-moving shallow waters with plenty of cover in the form of submerged branches or aquatic vegetation.