Glass Knifefish (Eigenmannia virescens) - Live Fish

Glass Knifefish (Eigenmannia virescens)
See right through them — but don’t overlook their beauty!

The Glass Knifefish is an elegant and fascinating species known for its translucent body and smooth, gliding motion. Native to slow-moving rivers and floodplains in South America, this nocturnal oddball uses electric fields to navigate murky waters — and it’s just as captivating in a home aquarium.

🔹 Quick Overview:

• Common Name: Glass Knifefish, Transparent Knifefish

• Scientific Name: Eigenmannia virescens

• Origin: Amazon River Basin & other parts of South America

• Size: Typically 8–12 inches (20–30 cm)

• Temperament: Peaceful but shy

• Lifespan: 5–8 years in captivity

🏡 Ideal Habitat & Tank Requirements:

• Tank Size: 40+ gallons (larger for adult groups)

• Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Environment Needs:

  • Low or subdued lighting

  • Fine sand or smooth gravel substrate

  • Provide hiding spaces (driftwood, rocks, dense plants, or PVC pipes)

  • Peaceful tankmates — no fin nippers!

🍽️ Diet:
Carnivorous and prefers small, soft foods:

• Frozen bloodworms, blackworms, brine shrimp

• Micropellets or high-protein sinking foods (with training)

• Feed at dusk or after lights-out for best results

🐣 Breeding Info:

• Rarely bred in captivity

• Wild behavior includes electric courtship signaling

• Breeding success requires species-specific setups and is not common in hobby tanks

🌟 Fun Facts:

• Uses weak electric fields to “see” in complete darkness — they literally feel their way around!

• Their nearly transparent bodies make them one of the most unique-looking fish in the hobby

• Unlike other knifefish, they’re social and can often be kept in small, peaceful groups if tank space allows

💡 Pro Tip:
Provide lots of cover and keep them with calm tankmates like tetras, rasboras, or peaceful cichlids. They’re shy but will grow bolder with time and trust.

Looking for a ghostly glider with brains, grace, and subtle beauty?
The Glass Knifefish is a must-have for any aquarist craving something truly unique.

🛒 Add this see-through stunner to your tank today!