Pink Knifefish/White Tamandua Knifefish - (Orthosternarchus tamandua)

🐟 Pink Knifefish / White Tamandua Knifefish – (Orthosternarchus tamandua) – Rare South American Electric Knifefish for Sale

The Pink Knifefish (Orthosternarchus tamandua), also known as the White Tamandua Knifefish, is a rare and unusual freshwater fish from the Amazon River Basin. This species stands out for its pale pink to white coloration, elongated body, and smooth, undulating swimming motion powered by its long anal fin.

Like other knifefish, it generates a weak electric field to navigate and communicate in dark or murky waters. The Pink Knifefish is peaceful toward similarly sized tankmates and thrives in quiet aquariums with gentle flow, making it a fascinating choice for advanced aquarists who enjoy keeping unique oddball species.

🔎 Quick Facts – Pink Knifefish (Orthosternarchus tamandua)

• 📛 Common Names: Pink Knifefish, White Tamandua Knifefish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Orthosternarchus tamandua
• 🌍 Origin: Amazon River Basin, South America
• 🎨 Appearance: Pale pink to white body, elongated knife-like shape, small head, long anal fin
• 📏 Max Size: 15–18 inches (38–45 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Rare; wild-caught

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐟 Peaceful but may eat very small fish
• 🌙 Nocturnal – more active during low light periods
• 🧠 Generates weak electric pulses for navigation and communication
• 🤝 Best with other calm, non-aggressive species of similar size

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 90+ gallons
• 🌿 Sandy substrate to prevent injury to delicate skin
• 🪵 Provide caves, driftwood, and dim lighting for security
• 💡 Low to moderate lighting to mimic natural environment
• 🌊 Gentle water flow with excellent filtration

💧 Water Parameters – Pink Knifefish Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 78–84°F (25–29°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.0–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous Knifefish

• 🦐 Live or frozen shrimp, bloodworms, blackworms
• 🪱 Earthworms, chopped fish, and other meaty foods
• 🌾 May accept sinking carnivore pellets over time

📋 Pink Knifefish Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Pink Knifefish is a rare and elegant Amazonian species prized for its unique pale coloration, graceful swimming, and fascinating electrosensory abilities—ideal for aquarists seeking an exotic oddball fish.