BGK Compatibility

[Angelphish]

I purchased an elephant nose from my lfs yesterday, the only problem I have with him is the fact that it won't eat its blood worms, but that is beyond the point (though I would be open to suggestions). I plan on purchasing a BGK later this year. I have a 8' x 2' x 2' 200 gallon aquarium.

 

[mattmez]

I would try black worms or even very small earthworms with the elephant nose. But if what you are asking us if you could house the BGK and nose together... I would have to say it would work but the two fish would constantly annoy each other due to their electric scenes. They won't quarrell but they may be uncomfortable.

 

[Angelphish]

With the way I have my aquarium lain out, they should stay on opposite sides of the tank.

 

[Ceiling_Matt]

wont matter, electric fields like those extruded by both BKG's and noses cover an entire tank no problem.

 

[mattmez]

+1 Yep..

 

[blackbullhead]

Actually, a BGK's electric field only extends about one body length in all directions around it and I believe it's a bit less in mormyrids like the elephant nose...

 

[mattmez]

ACTUALLY.... I did a study where any gymnotiforms electro field covers 5x of length in body length in both directions. Proven true because we house a gymnotus anguillaris as well as a apteronotus albifrons in 2 separate 96" aquaroums and the field was detected on each end on the tank. 16" in specimen in the middle of the tank. I have no clue about mormyrids

 

[blackbullhead]

Well, that depends...How did you detect the electric discharge?
Also, jealous of the G. anguillaris....

 

[Angelphish]

If the BGK isn't an option, are there any other knife fish the same size or smaller that I should look into?

 

[blackbullhead]

I actually don't see it being a problem at all for the reason I mentioned above...But that being said I've never tried it. Also, all South American knifefish are electric, so if you were going to try it, the species shouldn't make much difference.