Elephant Nose Fish

Gnathonemus petersii

A remarkable, electric-sensing fish with a trunk-like chin it uses to probe the substrate.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

73–82°F

pH

6–7.2

Hardness

2–12 dGH

Max size

9 in

Min tank

50 gal

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Social

Solitary

Swim level

Bottom

Diet

Carnivore

Care level

Advanced

Lifespan

6-10 years

Breeding

Egg-layer

Suitability

Advanced

Origin

West & Central Africa

Highly intelligent and sensitive, using a weak electric field to forage and communicate. Needs pristine, soft water, a soft sandy bottom, dim light, and live or frozen foods. Best kept singly or in a larger group; pairs often quarrel.