False Tiger Knifefish
Gymnotus javari
False Tiger Knifefish is a bottom-dwelling fish.
Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.
Quick facts
- Adult size
- ≤ 20 cm (≤ 7.9 in)
- Aquarium size
- 250 L or larger
- Care level
- Intermediate
- Temperament
- Semi-Aggressive
- Swimming zone
- Bottom dweller
- Temperature
- 24–28 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- GH
- 2–10 dGH
- KH
- 1–6 dKH
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Lifespan
- up to 12 years
Care requirements
Care level: Intermediate.
Lifespan: up to 12 years.
Aquarium size and space needs
Minimum aquarium size: 250 L or larger. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.
Water parameters
Suitable water: temperature 24–28 °C, pH 6–7.5, GH 2–10 dGH, KH 1–6 dKH.
Temperament and compatibility
False Tiger Knifefish needs careful companion choice because it can be territorial or semi-aggressive.
Swimming zone and behavior
This fish uses the bottom area, so leave enough open substrate area for movement and feeding.
Feeding
Use foods that suit a meatier diet and avoid combining it with fish small enough to be treated as food.
Make sure food reaches the substrate before faster fish take it.
Natural habitat and origin
Origin: Brazil, Peru.
Before adding this fish
- Plan for an aquarium of 250 L or larger.
- Choose other fish carefully around this temperament.
- Offer a varied diet that matches this species.
Similar fish profiles
Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.
FAQ
How large does False Tiger Knifefish get?
False Tiger Knifefish reaches ≤ 20 cm (≤ 7.9 in). Allow for adult swimming space, filtration, and compatible companions.
What aquarium size does False Tiger Knifefish need?
Use an aquarium of at least 250 L or larger.
Is False Tiger Knifefish peaceful?
False Tiger Knifefish needs more careful companion choice because the temperament data points toward boundaries, space, or similar-sized fish.
What temperature is suitable for False Tiger Knifefish?
Keep it between 24 to 28 °C.