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Species profile

Clown Knife Fish

Chitala ornata

Clown Knife Fish (Chitala ornata) aquarium profile: minimum 250 gallon tank, 36 inch adult size, 75-82°F temperature range, and advanced care. Can usually be planned as a single specimen or small group depending on temperament.

High energyAdvanced care
Clown Knife Fish aquarium fish
250 galMinimum tank
36 inAdult size
1Schooling minimum
75-82°FTemperature

Water Range

pH
6-7.5
GH
2-15 dGH
KH
1-10 dKH

Behavior

Temperament
Assertive
Fin nipping
0/5
Territory
3/5

Diet and Care

Diet
carnivore
Diet difficulty
4/5
Care difficulty
4/5

Planning Notes

Predatory or specialist fish; plan for adult size, secure lids, and meaty feeding needs. Large-growing species; needs long-term tank planning beyond the usual community aquarium.

This species may need live, frozen, fresh, or otherwise specialized foods.

live or fresh foodspecialized dietpredatory feedingescape risklarge adult sizelong term tank upgradehigh bioloadassertive or territorial
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Use the checker before adding Clown Knife Fish to compare tank size, cycle status, cover, and tankmates.

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