This appendage gives the animal superior control in the water, as it is able to propel itself forward and backward with a minimum of wasted energy.

The pectoral fins of the African brown knifefish are lengthy and designed to give the animal precise control as it swims.

The scales of the knifefish are extremely small, giving it a smooth appearance broken only by its fairly prominent lateral line.

The African brown knifefish is nocturnal and uses the nerve-filled pits running down its body to navigate lightless waters.

The knifefish, when not hiding away, spends much of its time swimming with its head down and the barbels in close proximity to the substrate.