Species profile
Elephant Nose Fish
Gnathonemus petersii
Peaceful
Hard care
500 L minimum aquarium
20–25 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Keep singly unless the aquarium is exceptionally large enough for a true group of six or more; small groups often lead to severe bullying.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–28 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
2–15 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
3.2
Timid with other species but territorial toward conspecifics/other mormyrids. Highly sensitive to poor water quality and some medications.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
500 L
Minimum footprint
150 × 60 cm
Accepted scientific name
Gnathonemus petersii
Alternative names
Peters' Elephantnose Fish, Long-nosed Elephant Fish
Native range
Congo and Niger basin systems in central/western Africa.
Natural habitat
Dim slow-flowing waters with soft sand/silt. Provide at least a 150 cm long, 60 cm wide tank, soft sand, dark retreats and exceptionally stable low-nitrate water.
Diet & feeding
Micro-predator; small frozen/live invertebrates are important and feeding after lights-out is often necessary.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Reliable external sexing is not established.
Breeding
Not reliably bred in home aquaria; electrical courtship signalling may be disrupted in confinement.