Featherback – Chitala blanci | Wild-caught | Elegant, rare large fish from Southeast Asia

The Featherfin Knifefish (Chitala blanci) is an extremely elegant and rare representative of the knifefishes from Southeast Asia. With its long, slender body and undulating movement, reminiscent of a gliding ribbon, it attracts all eyes in the aquarium. Its silvery-bronze coloration and shimmering accents along its flanks give it a particularly noble appearance.

In its natural habitat, the large rivers and reservoirs of Southeast Asia, Chitala blanci lives in calm, deep waters with dense vegetation and roots. This species is predominantly crepuscular and nocturnal, peaceful towards similarly sized fish, but predatory towards smaller species.

🌿 Characteristics & Care:
🐟 Fish Size: XL (approx. 15–20 cm, juvenile)
🌍 Origin: Southeast Asia (Mekong, Chao Phraya, Laos, Thailand) – Wild Caught
🌡️ Temperature: 25–30 °C
💧 pH-Value: 6.5–7.8
⚖️ Total Hardness: up to 20 °dGH
🐠 Social Behavior: Peaceful, territorial, grows large
🏞️ Aquarium: from 1000 l with sand substrate, roots, plants & subdued lighting

🍽️ Feeding:
The Featherfin Knifefish is a predator that prefers animal-based food. Frozen and live food such as Mysis, shrimp, mussel meat, or small fish are readily accepted. Juveniles also take fine frozen food and granules. A varied, protein-rich diet promotes vitality and growth.

💡 Tip:
Chitala blanci requires a large, quiet aquarium with many hiding places, subdued lighting, and soft, clean water. Solitary keeping or cohabitation with peaceful, robust large fish of similar size is ideal.

👉 Conclusion:
The Featherfin Knifefish (Chitala blanci) is an elegant, rare large fish with a unique swimming style – perfect for experienced aquarists with large tanks and a penchant for exotic species.