Albino Knife Fish

Albino Knife Fish (Chitala ornata – Albino Form)

The Albino Knife Fish is a spectacular and unusual freshwater predator recognised for its long, blade-shaped body, flowing undulating fin, and striking pale colouration. An albino form of the Clown Knife Fish, it typically displays a creamy white to pale pink body with red or pink eyes, creating a dramatic appearance as it glides effortlessly through the aquarium.

Although often sold as juveniles, Albino Knife Fish grow exceptionally large and require a substantial aquarium as adults. They are primarily nocturnal and appreciate caves, driftwood, and shaded areas where they can retreat during the day. Their eventual size and predatory nature make them best suited to experienced aquarists with the space to accommodate them long term.

Approx. 10cm

Physical Characteristics:

• Adult Size: Approximately 80–100cm, with exceptionally large specimens capable of growing larger
• Body Shape: Long, laterally compressed, knife-shaped body with an extended anal fin used to propel the fish forwards and backwards
• Colouration: Creamy white to pale pink colouration with pink or red eyes characteristic of the albino form
• Sexual Dimorphism: Males and females are difficult to distinguish visually
• Lifespan: Approximately 10–15 years or more with appropriate care

Behaviour & Temperament:

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive and predatory
• Swimming Level: Middle to lower levels
• Social Behaviour: Generally solitary and may become territorial towards similar-shaped fish. Smaller fish may be viewed as prey.
• Recommended Group Size: Best kept singly unless housed in an exceptionally large aquarium with carefully selected tank mates

Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 750 litres or larger recommended for an adult, with considerably more space beneficial for fully grown specimens
• Water Temperature: 24–28°C
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
• Water Flow: Gentle to moderate
• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
• Aquascape: Provide large caves, driftwood, shaded retreats, and extensive open swimming space
• Lighting: Low to moderate lighting preferred

Food:

• Albino Knife Fish are carnivorous predators and require a varied, protein-rich diet appropriate to their size.
• Suitable Foods: Quality carnivore pellets, prawns, mussels, earthworms, insects, krill, and suitable frozen foods
• Frequency: Juveniles benefit from smaller regular meals, while larger adults can receive appropriately sized meals several times per week.

Compatibility

• Suitable Tank Mates: Large peaceful to semi-aggressive fish that are too large to be swallowed, including suitably sized large catfish, large barbs, robust cichlids, and other compatible large aquarium species
• Avoid Housing With: Small fish, shrimp, highly aggressive species, fin-nipping fish, and tank mates small enough to be considered prey

Breeding:

• Spawning Type: Egg layer
• Difficulty: Advanced and uncommon in home aquariums

Notes: Their very large adult size makes breeding impractical for most home aquariums. Successful reproduction requires substantial space and carefully controlled conditions.

Special Considerations

• Albino Knife Fish become extremely large and should only be purchased when suitable long-term accommodation can be provided.
• They are skilled predators and may consume surprisingly large tank mates.
• Provide secure caves and shaded areas to accommodate their naturally nocturnal behaviour.
• A secure, tight-fitting aquarium lid is essential as large knife fish can jump.
• Powerful filtration and regular water changes are required due to their size and substantial waste production.

Product Photo is for reference only. Exact fish may vary in size and colour.