African Knife Fish tank mates
Xenomystus nigri
6 rated pairings from the African Knife Fish care guide. Compatibility here means water, temperament, tank zone and adult size all line up — the note on each card says why. African Knife Fish needs at least 55 gallons on its own; every companion adds to that.
Good matches
4 · Compatible with normal care — watch space and numbers.Senegal Bichir
Polypterus senegalus
75 gal min · 12" adult · Semi-aggressive
Similar size and nocturnal behavior; both are predatory but can coexist with proper space
Ornate Bichir
Polypterus ornatipinnis
90 gal min · 18" adult · Semi-aggressive
Compatible nocturnal predator with similar care requirements
Rope Fish
Erpetoichthys calabaricus
55 gal min · 15" adult · Peaceful
Nocturnal bottom-dweller with similar temperament and habitat needs
Spotted Raphael Catfish
Agamyxis pectinifrons
30 gal min · 6" adult · Peaceful
Nocturnal armored catfish that can defend itself; similar habitat preferences
Use caution
2 · Works in the right setup; read the note before combining.Upside-Down Catfish
Synodontis nigriventris
20 gal min · 4" adult · Peaceful
Nocturnal but smaller; may be viewed as prey if not large enough
Firemouth Cichlid
Thorichthys meeki
30 gal min · 6" adult · Semi-aggressive
Aggressive cichlid; only suitable if African Knife Fish is significantly larger
Planning this tank?
Run the whole stock list through the calculator — it checks bioload and schooling numbers, not just pairings.