XL Pom Pom Knife (14”)

Scientific Name: Papyrocranus afer

Maximum Size and Lifespan

Papyrocranus afer can reach up to 20–24 inches in length when fully grown. In captivity, with proper care, they typically live around 10–15 years, though some specimens have been known to live longer in ideal conditions.

Recommended Aquarium Size

A minimum tank size of 180 gallons (680 liters) is recommended for an adult P. afer. Juveniles can be started in smaller aquariums but will quickly outgrow them. The tank should have a large footprint and minimal strong current, as this species prefers slow-moving or still waters.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 25–29°C (77–84°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: 2–12 dGH

Water Changes and Care:
Perform 30–40% water changes weekly to maintain stable water quality and prevent buildup of nitrates. The species is sensitive to poor water conditions, so efficient filtration and low-stress environments are essential. Provide dim lighting, plenty of hiding spots (driftwood, caves, pipes, dense vegetation), and a soft sandy substrate. Avoid bright lighting as these fish are largely nocturnal.

Tankmates

Papyrocranus afer is a semi-aggressive and predatory species, best kept with large, calm, non-territorial tankmates that are too big to be eaten.
Suitable companions include:

• Polypterus

• Large Catfish (Synodontis, Chrysichthys)

• Medium to large Characins

Avoid:

• Small fish (may be eaten)

• Aggressive or fin-nipping species (can cause stress and damage the knife’s delicate body and fins)

Diet

Papyrocranus afer is carnivorous, feeding primarily on small fish, crustaceans, and insect larvae in the wild.
In captivity, it readily accepts:

• Frozen foods: bloodworms, shrimp, silversides, and krill

• Prepared foods: high-quality frozen carnivore diets and sinking meaty pellets (once acclimated)

Feed 2–3 times weekly, and avoid overfeeding. They may refuse dry foods initially, so a transition period using frozen offerings is often required.

Overview

The Pom Pom Knife Fish (Papyrocranus afer) is an elegant and secretive species from Africa, known for its laterally compressed, knife-like body and striking reticulated patterning. Unlike the South American Chitala or Apteronotus knives, Papyrocranus afer is an African native with a slightly more robust build and less tolerance for aggressive tankmates. It is primarily nocturnal, spending daylight hours hiding and emerging at night to feed. This species communicates and navigates using a weak electric field, much like other knife fish.

Natural Environment

Papyrocranus afer is found throughout West and Central Africa, inhabiting slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and swamps with heavy vegetation and submerged roots. These waters are typically warm, soft, and slightly acidic, providing plenty of cover for ambush hunting. They prefer murky environments with limited visibility, relying on their electric sense to detect prey and obstacles.

Breeding

Breeding Papyrocranus afer in captivity is extremely rare and poorly documented. In the wild, they are believed to spawn during the rainy season, with males constructing or defending small territories. Eggs are deposited on submerged vegetation or roots, and parental care may be minimal. In aquaria, no confirmed captive breeding events have been consistently reported, likely due to the species’ size, nocturnal habits, and environmental triggers being difficult to replicate.

Papyrocranus afer (Reticulated Knife Fish) is a striking and intelligent African predatory species best suited for experienced aquarists. With proper tank size, stable warm water, and a calm environment, it becomes a fascinating display fish—graceful, secretive, and electric in both behavior and presence.