Misc / Aquarium Zone · Ballina
Apteronotus albifrons
Semi-aggressive, so choose its tankmates with care. Grows to about 50 cm and suits a tank of 150 litres or more.
The fish, up close
The White Ghost Knife, scientifically known as Apteronotus albifrons, is a striking and unique freshwater fish originating from South America. It features a sleek, elongated body with a shimmering silver-white colouration, resembling a ghostly apparition as it gracefully glides through the water. Its most distinctive feature is its long, ribbon-like tail fin that undulates gracefully, aiding in its movement. White Ghost Knives have poor eyesight but rely on a strong electrical field produced by an organ in their tail to navigate and communicate with other fish.
Care guide
Use these notes to shape a setup around the fish, then speak with our team about the tank you have in mind.
Plan your setupBehaviour
White Ghost Knives are generally peaceful and shy fish that prefer to hide during the day and become more active at night. They are known to be sensitive to bright light and sudden movements, so a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots is essential to make them feel secure. They are social creatures that can be kept in small groups but should be monitored for any signs of aggression.
Tank planning
Maintaining stable water parameters is crucial for the health of White Ghost Knives. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with a temperature range of 24-28 degrees Celsius. Regular water changes and good filtration are important to keep the tank clean and maintain water quality. It's also recommended to provide a sandy substrate to prevent injury to their delicate bellies.
Practical details
Questions
For a specific fish, current stock or a tank setup question, speak with the Aquarium Zone team before travelling.
Contact the storeAquarium Zone regularly helps customers find freshwater fish in Ballina and across the Northern Rivers. Stock changes week to week, so contact the store before visiting if you are looking for White Ghost Knife.
Yes. Bring your tank size, current fish list, setup photos, and any water test results so the team can help with compatibility, stocking, and care advice.
White Ghost Knife is listed with this tank recommendation: A single adult White Ghost Knife should be housed in a tank of at least 150 litres, with additional space needed for each additional knife kept together. A larger tank with a length of at least 120 cm is ideal to accommodate their swimming behaviour and to reduce territorial disputes. Ask in-store for advice based on your exact setup and tank mates.
Yes. Aquarium Zone serves aquarium hobbyists from Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville, Wollongbar, Bangalow, Byron Bay, Lismore, Evans Head, Mullumbimby, Casino and the wider Northern Rivers.
Aquarium Zone / Ballina
Looking for White Ghost Knife? Contact us to confirm current availability and discuss whether it suits your aquarium before making the trip.
18 Southern Cross Drive
