Common Name: Peters’s Elephantnose
Scientific Name: Gnathonemus petersii
Other Names: Elephant nose fish, Peter’s elephantnose fish
Peters's Elephantnose is a freshwater fish that is found in the rivers and lakes of Central Africa. They are a unique-looking fish with a flat, elongated body and a long snout that resembles an elephant's trunk. Their bodies are dark brown or black, and they have a distinctive electric organ that runs along the length of their body. The electric organ allows them to detect prey and communicate with other members of their species. They are active swimmers and have a peaceful temperament, making them an attractive addition to a community aquarium.
Habitat and Distribution:
Peters’s Elephantnose is native to the rivers and lakes of Central Africa, specifically in the Congo River basin. They are found in slow-moving or stagnant water with vegetation and muddy bottoms. They prefer dark, oxygen-rich waters and can often be found in areas with submerged logs and other debris.
Size and Lifespan:
Peters’s Elephantnose can grow up to 10 inches in length and can live up to 10 years with proper care.
Diet and Behavior:
Peters’s Elephantnose is an omnivore and will eat a variety of foods, including live and frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and mosquito larvae, as well as high-quality pellets and flakes. They are peaceful fish and do well in a community aquarium with other non-aggressive species. They are active swimmers and require ample swimming space, so a large aquarium is recommended.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Peters’s Elephantnose in captivity is challenging, and there is limited information available on their breeding behavior.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
Peters’s Elephantnose requires a tank that is at least 50 gallons in size and has a secure lid as they are known to jump. They prefer subdued lighting and a substrate of sand or fine gravel to mimic their natural habitat. The aquarium should have plenty of hiding places, such as caves, logs, or plants, to provide security for the fish. They prefer slow-moving or still water with a pH range between 6.5 to 7.5 and a temperature range between 75 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Peters’s Elephantnose are peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive species. Good tankmates include other peaceful fish like tetras, corydoras, and gouramis.
Difficulty Level:
Peters’s Elephantnose can be moderately difficult to care for due to their specific requirements, including water parameters, tank size, and diet.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 75 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit
- pH: 6.5 to 7.5
- Hardness: 5 to 15 dGH
- Ammonia: 0 ppm
- Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <20 ppm
Additional Information:
- Peters’s Elephantnose is nocturnal and prefers a dimly lit aquarium.
- They are known for their unique electric organ, which they use for communication and hunting.
- In the wild, they are preyed upon by larger fish, birds, and crocodiles.
- Peters’s Elephantnose is not listed as an endangered species, but habitat destruction and pollution are major threats to their populations in the wild.
