Clown Knife (Chitala ornata)

Clown knife belongs to the same Notopteridae family as the African knife fish, sharing that single long undulating anal fin for propulsion, but this genus skips the weak electric sense entirely, relying on sight and a sensitive lateral line instead. In parts of Southeast Asia it's also a genuine food fish, ground into the fish paste used for popular fish cakes — a very different career path than the ornamental centerpiece role it plays here.

Care level: Moderate · Temperament: Peaceful, predatory to small fish · Max size: ~35" · Min tank: 180+ gal (adult) · Diet: Carnivore, live/frozen foods