The jack knifefish, commonly referred to as the American knifefish (family Sternopygidae), is a slender, elongated freshwater species notable for its undulating fin and nocturnal habits. It is native to the rivers and floodplains of Central and South America, particularly the Amazon, Orinoco, and Paraná river basins. While not a major commercial species like catfish or tilapia, jack knifefish are harvested in countries such as Brazil, Colombia, and Peru, primarily for the ornamental aquarium trade rather than for food. These countries have developed small-scale fisheries and export networks to supply global demand for exotic aquarium species, with Brazil leading due to its vast river systems and biodiversity. The fishing industry for jack knifefish is thus niche but important for local economies and the international pet trade, with sustainability and habitat conservation becoming increasingly important considerations.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.