Reticulate knifefish
📖 Overview
Reticulate knifefish (Papyrocranus afer), first described by Günther, 1868 is a large fish in the family Notopteridae (order Osteoglossiformes). Adults typically reach 80.00 cm in maximum length and up to 1.300 kg. It inhabits freshwater systems including rivers, streams, and lakes. It occurs in Tropical waters. It is broadly omnivorous, taking invertebrates, plant matter, and detritus. On the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Least Concern.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 2; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 113 - 141. With 35-45 ventral spines; head 5.0-5.1 times SL; eye diameter 4.6-5.3 times head length; length of nasal tentacle twice the eye diameter. Caudal vertebrae 63-69 .: fusiform / normal; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Reticulate knifefish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; demersal; pH range: 6.5 - ? ; dH range: 10 - ?. Tropical; 24°C - 30°C east of the Niger delta (Ref.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Notopterus afer | Günther | 1868 | Synonym |
| Papyrochranus afer | Günther | 1868 | Synonym |
| Paryrocranus afer | Günther | 1868 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 98 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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