Knifefish: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification & Much More

By Emily Buono

In this blog post, we will be exploring the fascinating world of a unique and intriguing creature: the Knifefish. Knifefish, also known as the electric fish or elephant fish, are a type of fish found in freshwater rivers and streams. These animals have a long and slender body, resembling the shape of a knife, which is how they got their name.

Knifefish have an interesting history that dates back to millions of years ago. Fossil records show that these creatures have been around since the time of the dinosaurs! They have evolved over time to survive in various habitats, adapting to different environments to meet their specific needs.

One of the most remarkable features of the Knifefish is their ability to produce electricity. This powerful electric shock is used for communication, hunting, and self-defense. They are highly skilled at generating electric fields to navigate and detect their prey in dark and murky waters.

When it comes to size, Knifefish can vary significantly. While some species grow to be only a few inches long, others can reach lengths of up to 6 feet! Their sizes also differ in terms of weight, with smaller species weighing just a few ounces, and larger ones weighing several pounds.

Knifefish are mainly found in freshwater habitats, such as rivers, lakes, and streams, across various parts of the world. Some species prefer shallow waters, while others are found in deeper regions. Their natural habitats give them access to a diverse diet, including small fish, insects, crustaceans, and plant matter.

In terms of classification, the Knifefish belongs to the order Gymnotiformes, which includes around 200 known species. They are part of the broader category of ray-finned fishes, which make up the largest group of known fish species in the world.

This blog post will serve as an informative guide to help you learn more about these fascinating creatures. Whether you are a young learner or an animal enthusiast, we hope to provide you with exciting facts, intriguing history, and an understanding of the Knifefish’s size, habitat, and classification. Remember, we already have an article featuring 155+ other amazing animals, so be sure to explore our blog for more captivating content!

History of Knifefish

The knifefish has a long and fascinating history. It is believed to have originated in South America, where it can be found in the Amazon River basin and other freshwater bodies. These days, it can also be found in other parts of the world, thanks to its popularity as an aquarium fish.

For centuries, the knifefish has been an important part of the ecosystem in its native habitat. It plays a crucial role in controlling the population of smaller fish and insects, helping to maintain the balance of the underwater ecosystem. It is known for its unique ability to generate weak electric fields, which it uses to navigate and hunt for prey. This electroreception ability sets it apart from other fish and makes it a fascinating species to study.

In recent years, scientists have become increasingly interested in studying the knifefish’s electric fields and how it can help us better understand the functions of the nervous system. Its unique abilities have even inspired researchers to develop underwater robots based on its design. These robots could potentially have many practical applications, such as exploring the ocean depths or assisting in search and rescue missions.

In conclusion, the knifefish has a rich and diverse history, playing a crucial role in its native ecosystem and capturing the interest of scientists around the world. Its unique abilities and characteristics continue to intrigue researchers, leading to exciting advancements in various fields. By studying this incredible creature, we can gain a better understanding of the complex workings of nature and potentially unlock new possibilities in engineering and technology.

Importance of Knifefish

The knifefish animal is very important to the ecosystem. It plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of other aquatic organisms and their environment.

Firstly, knifefish eat small insects and other small creatures that live in the water. By doing so, they help control the population of these creatures. This is important because if their population grows too much, it can cause imbalances in the ecosystem. For example, if there are too many insects, they may eat all the plants in the water, which can harm other animals that depend on the plants for food and shelter.

Secondly, knifefish are also a source of food for larger predators. Many animals, such as birds or larger fish, rely on knifefish as a part of their diet. Without knifefish, these predators would struggle to find enough food to survive, which could disrupt the entire food chain in the aquatic environment.

In conclusion, the knifefish animal is important because it helps control the population of small creatures in the water and serves as a source of food for larger predators. Without knifefish, there would be imbalances in the ecosystem, affecting other organisms and their survival.

Amazing Facts About Knifefish

1. Knifefish are a type of freshwater fish that belong to the Mormyridae family.
2. There are approximately 200 different species of knifefish found in rivers and lakes of Africa and South America.
3. Knifefish have elongated bodies that are flat and shaped like a knife, hence their name.
4. Most knifefish species are small, ranging from a few inches to around a foot in length.
5. These fish have a long and continuous fin running along the bottom of their bodies, which helps them to swim and maneuver in the water.
6. Knifefish are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active during the night and rest during the day.
7. One interesting fact about knifefish is that they generate weak electric fields using specialized cells in their tails, which helps them navigate and detect their surroundings.
8. The electric discharges produced by knifefish are used for communication, hunting prey, and locating other fish.
9. Knifefish are primarily carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates, insects, and even smaller fish in their natural habitat.
10. These fish have varying colors, ranging from shades of brown and black to silver and pale yellow, which help them blend into their surroundings and avoid predators.
11. Some species of knifefish are able to produce sounds by vibrating their swim bladders, which are gas-filled organs in their bodies that aid in buoyancy.
12. Knifefish are known to be excellent jumpers and can propel themselves out of the water to escape predators or catch prey.
13. These fish have a highly developed sense of hearing and can detect very low-frequency sounds, allowing them to communicate and locate prey in murky waters.
14. Knifefish are generally peaceful and can be kept as pets in aquariums, as long as they are provided with suitable tank conditions and proper care.
15. In some regions, certain species of knifefish are considered a delicacy and are consumed by humans as a food source.

Can we keep Knifefish as our Pet?

Keeping a Knifefish as a pet is not a good idea. Knifefish are not suitable to be kept as pets, as they require specific conditions that are difficult to replicate in a home environment. They need large tanks with plenty of space to swim, as well as clean and well-maintained water. Moreover, they eat live food like insects and small fish, which may be difficult to provide consistently.

Additionally, it is important to note that some species of Knifefish are endangered or extinct. This means that they are no longer found in the wild and are very rare. The loss of their natural habitat due to human activities, like pollution and deforestation, has led to their decline. It is crucial to protect and conserve these species rather than keeping them as pets.

In conclusion, it is not advisable to keep Knifefish as pets due to their specific needs and requirements, which are difficult to meet in a home environment. Moreover, some species of Knifefish are endangered or extinct, emphasizing the need to protect and preserve them. It is essential for us to be responsible in our actions and ensure the conservation of these magnificent creatures for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.

Size of Knifefish

The Knifefish animal is quite fascinating, especially when we think about its size. It is not like other common fish we often see swimming in rivers or oceans. The Knifefish can grow up to 6 feet long, which is almost as tall as an adult person! Can you imagine a fish that big? It is truly remarkable.

The first thing that strikes us is its long and sleek body shape. It is shaped like a knife, hence the name Knifefish. With a thin body, it allows the fish to cut through the water effortlessly. The length of its body helps it to maneuver smoothly, even in the narrowest streams.

Although the size of the Knifefish may seem intimidating, it is actually quite harmless. It doesn’t have any teeth or sharp claws like some other big fish. They mostly feed on small insects and worms. Their long body helps them to swiftly glide through the water, searching for food, making them superb hunters.

In conclusion, the Knifefish animal can reach an impressive size of up to 6 feet long. Its slender body allows it to glide through the water with ease, making it an excellent hunter. Despite its size, it is not dangerous to humans or larger animals. Isn’t it fascinating how this creature can grow to be so big, yet poses no threat to us?

Habitat of Knifefish

Knifefish are unique animals that live in the freshwaters of South America. They inhabit various river systems, including the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Knifefish prefer slow-moving or stagnant waters, such as swamps, marshes, and flooded areas, where they can find plenty of food and shelter. These freshwater habitats provide the perfect conditions for knifefish to thrive and survive.

In their habitat, knifefish rely on their excellent camouflage to hide from predators and surprise their prey. The muddy and murky waters, combined with dense vegetation, provide the perfect camouflage for these animals. They blend in with their surroundings, making it difficult for other creatures to spot them. This helps them stay safe and catch their prey with ease. Additionally, knifefish have a unique electric sense that allows them to navigate and communicate in the dark and murky waters.

The freshwater habitats where knifefish live are filled with a diverse array of plants, insects, and other small animals. In these rich ecosystems, knifefish play a crucial role in helping maintain the balance. They feed on small invertebrates, worms, and sometimes even smaller fish, thus controlling their populations. Likewise, they are an important food source for larger predators, including birds and other fish. Without knifefish, the delicate balance of the freshwater ecosystems they call home would be disrupted.

In conclusion, knifefish thrive in the freshwaters of South America, particularly in slow-moving or stagnant waters like swamps and marshes. Their ability to hide and their unique electric sense make these habitats ideal for their survival. Knifefish play an essential role in their ecosystem, helping to control populations and providing food for other predators. Their habitat is a vibrant and diverse environment where they contribute to the overall balance and health of the freshwater ecosystems.

Evolution of Knifefish

Knifefish are fascinating creatures that belong to a group of electric fish called Gymnotiformes. These fish have a long, slender, and flat body shape that resembles the blade of a knife, hence their name. When we look at the evolution of knifefish, we can trace their history back millions of years ago.

The first ancestors of knifefish appeared in South America around 100 million years ago. They were very different from the knifefish we see today. These ancient fish had a more primitive electric organ, which they used to navigate and communicate in the murky waters they lived in. Over time, these fish evolved and developed more complex electric organs that allowed them to sense their environment even better.

Around 60 million years ago, these early knifefish started to diversify into different species. Some adapted to live in freshwater rivers, while others preferred the quiet life of swamps and flooded forests. Their streamlined bodies and electrical sensing abilities helped them hunt for prey and avoid predators more efficiently. As these fish continued to evolve, they became more specialized in their environments and developed various unique adaptations.

Today, knifefish come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors. Some species have evolved stunning camouflage patterns to blend in with their surroundings, while others have elongated bodies to maneuver through narrow spaces. Despite their ancient origins, knifefish have proven their resilience as they continue to adapt and thrive in their diverse habitats. Their evolutionary history is a testament to the wonders of nature and the incredible process of adaptation over millions of years.

Classification of Knifefish

Knifefish animals belong to a group called electric fish. These unique creatures are known for their ability to generate electric fields, which they use for communication, navigation, and hunting. There are about 250 different species of knifefish, with varying sizes and colors. They can be found in freshwater rivers and lakes in South America, Africa, and parts of Asia.

The classification of knifefish animals starts with the Animal Kingdom, as they are multicellular organisms. They are then classified as part of the Chordata phylum, along with other vertebrates like mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Knifefish are further classified into the Osteichthyes class, which includes bony fish.

Within the Osteichthyes class, knifefish fall into the Gymnotiformes order. This order includes several families, such as the Apteronotidae and Gymnotidae. Each family contains different species of knifefish with distinct characteristics. For example, the electric eel is a well-known member of the Gymnotidae family and is capable of generating a powerful electric shock.

In conclusion, knifefish animals are classified as electric fish, belonging to the Animal Kingdom, Chordata phylum, and Osteichthyes class. They are part of the Gymnotiformes order, which is comprised of various families of knifefish. Through their ability to produce electric fields, these fascinating creatures have adapted to their freshwater habitats. By studying the classification of knifefish, we can learn more about the diversity and complexity of the animal kingdom.

Different Types of Knifefish

1. Electric Eel: This knifefish is well-known for its ability to generate electric shocks, which it uses for hunting and self-defense. It has a long body and can deliver powerful shocks of up to 600 volts, enough to stun or deter predators.

2. Black Ghost Knifefish: A unique species known for its dark coloration and ghostly appearance. It has a flexible and elongated body, is mostly nocturnal, and uses its long anal fin to produce weak electric fields to navigate and locate prey in dimly lit waters.

3. Royal Knifefish: This knifefish boasts colorful patterns and is often found in aquariums due to its beautiful appearance. It is docile and peaceful, making it a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts for its aesthetic value.

4. African Clown Knifefish: Native to Africa, this species is recognizable by its striking black stripes and orange-red fins. It is a popular addition to home aquariums but should be kept in large tanks due to its substantial size and need for space.

5. Glass Knifefish: As the name suggests, this knifefish has a transparent body, allowing observers to see its internal organs. It is a nocturnal species and uses weak electric discharges to navigate, communicate, and locate prey in dimly lit environments.

6. Banded Knifefish: With distinct dark vertical bands across its body, this species is visually captivating. Its elongated body, equipped with a long anal fin, enables it to swiftly move through freshwater habitats, and it often hunts small aquatic invertebrates and insects.

7. Featherfin Knifefish: Found in African freshwater systems, this knifefish has unique feather-like pectoral fins, which aid in swimming and stability. It is a peaceful species that generally feeds on small invertebrates and clams, making it an ideal addition to community aquariums.

8. Vanderhorst’s Knifefish: This rare and elusive species is endemic to the Orinoco and Schuylkill River basins. It is distinguishable by its long and slender body, along with a large elongated snout. Little is known about its behavior and lifestyle due to its scarcity.

9. White Spotted Knifefish: Characterized by its prominent white spots on a dark body, this species is a fascinating addition to aquariums. It typically prefers slow-moving or stagnant water and can adapt to a range of water conditions, making it relatively easy to care for in captivity.

10. Brown Ghost Knifefish: Resembling the black ghost knifefish, this species has a brownish or grayish coloration. It is prized for its graceful swimming style and is often sought after by aquarium hobbyists for its calm demeanor and unique appearance.

Geographical Presence of Knifefish

The Knifefish animal is often found in the freshwaters of South America. It is most commonly found in rivers and streams, particularly in the Amazon Basin. This region is known for its vast and diverse range of aquatic life, including the Knifefish. They thrive in warm, tropical waters and are an important part of the ecosystem in this area.

On the other hand, Knifefish are not found in regions outside of South America. They are not native to other continents or countries, as their natural habitat is limited to the freshwater bodies in the South American region. This means that you won’t find Knifefish in places like Europe, Africa, Asia, or North America.

It is important to note that while Knifefish are not found outside of South America in their natural habitat, they can sometimes be found in aquariums or zoos in other parts of the world. These captive populations are often maintained for educational or ornamental purposes, allowing people from different regions to learn about and appreciate the unique characteristics of this fascinating animal.

Scientific Name of Knifefish

The scientific name for the Knifefish is Apteronotus albifrons. This fascinating creature is a type of freshwater fish that belongs to the family Apteronotidae. It is known for its long and slender body, similar to the shape of a knife, which is how it got its common name.

The Knifefish can be spotted in various regions of South America, particularly in the Amazon River basin. It prefers to inhabit calm and slow-moving waters, often hiding among submerged vegetation or rocky crevices. With its unique electrical sensing ability, the Knifefish can navigate and communicate with others of its kind.

One remarkable feature of the Knifefish is its ability to generate an electric field, which it uses for communication and to navigate in its environment. This skill is known as electrolocation and enables the Knifefish to locate prey, avoid obstacles, and even communicate with other members of its species.

In conclusion, the scientific name for the Knifefish is Apteronotus albifrons. This remarkable freshwater fish possesses a long and slender body, similar to the shape of a knife. It is found in various regions of South America, particularly in the Amazon River basin, and is known for its unique ability to generate an electric field for communication and navigation purposes.

Diet of Knifefish

The diet of the knifefish animal consists mainly of small creatures that live in the water. These creatures are often known as prey for the knifefish. The knifefish likes to eat insects, worms, small crustaceans, and even smaller fish.

One of the main sources of food for the knifefish is insects. They use their long, slender bodies and sharp teeth to catch these insects that live near the water’s surface. The knifefish can quickly swim towards its prey and use its mouth to grab the insect before it has a chance to escape.

Another important food source for the knifefish is worms. They often burrow into the bottom of the water, and the knifefish is good at detecting their presence. It uses its strong sense of smell to locate the worms, then uses its slender body and sharp teeth to catch and eat them.

Additionally, the knifefish also eats small crustaceans, which are tiny animals with hard shells. These crustaceans, such as shrimps and crabs, also live in the water. The knifefish uses its sharp teeth to crush the shells and consume the soft insides.

The diet of the knifefish is essential for its survival and overall health. By feeding on insects, worms, and small crustaceans, the knifefish obtains the necessary nutrients it needs to grow and thrive in its aquatic environment.

Locomotion of Knifefish

Knifefish animals move in a unique way called undulation. Undulation means they move their bodies in a wavy motion, similar to a snake. This motion helps them to swim smoothly through the water. The shape of their bodies, which is long and slender, allows them to easily make these waves. They use their long, thin fins located on the sides of their bodies to create the waves, which propels them forward.

Knifefish animals are quite good at maneuvering through the water. They can change the speed and direction of their movement by adjusting the frequency and amplitude of their waves. This helps them to avoid obstacles and catch their prey. Despite not having any legs or a traditional tail, knifefish animals are excellent swimmers because of their special undulating locomotion. It’s fascinating how these creatures have adapted to move efficiently through their watery habitats using their long bodies and fins.

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Knifefish

The social and sexual behavior of knifefish animals is truly fascinating! These amazing creatures have developed unique ways to communicate with each other and find mates. Let’s take a closer look and learn more about their behavior.

When it comes to social behavior, knifefish animals tend to stick together in groups called schools. They swim closely together, almost like a big fishy family. This behavior helps them protect themselves from predators and find food more easily. Within the school, they use special electric signals to communicate with each other. They send out electric pulses, which act like a secret code that only other knifefish can understand. This way, they share important information about the environment or warn each other of danger.

Now let’s talk about their sexual behavior. First, male knifefish animals use special electric signals to attract females. It’s like they’re singing a love song through electricity! The males create elaborate patterns of electric pulses, hoping to catch the attention of a female. Once a female chooses a male, they engage in a unique courtship behavior. The male and female swim closely together and touch each other with their fins, almost like holding hands. This is their way of showing affection and building a bond before they mate and start a new family.

In summary, knifefish animals have a fascinating social and sexual behavior. They swim together in schools, using electric signals to communicate and stay safe. When it’s time to find a mate, male knifefish use special electric signals to attract females, and they engage in a lovely courtship behavior before mating. Knifefish are truly extraordinary creatures!

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Knifefish

The knifefish is a fascinating aquatic animal that has a unique way of reproducing and growing throughout its life cycle. Let’s explore their reproduction and life cycle in simple terms.

The knifefish starts its life as an egg. After mating, the female lays hundreds of eggs in a safe place, like a nest or a hole in the ground. The male then fertilizes the eggs by releasing sperm. These eggs are small and transparent, making it easier for us to see the tiny embryos growing inside. It takes about a week or two for the eggs to hatch.

When the eggs hatch, the baby knifefish, called fry, are born. At this stage, they are very tiny and do not have the ability to swim properly. They rely on their yolk sac, a small pouch filled with food, to survive. As they grow, the fry start swimming and feeding on small organisms like plankton. They grow rapidly and develop their distinctive shape, resembling a knife.

As the knifefish continues to grow, it undergoes different stages of development. It sheds its skin periodically and gradually becomes stronger and bigger. The knifefish’s life cycle continues as it reaches adulthood. At this stage, it has the ability to reproduce and lay eggs, starting the cycle all over again.

In summary, the knifefish begins its life as an egg, hatches into a tiny fry, grows into an adult, reproduces, and continues the life cycle. This amazing process shows how these creatures adapt and survive in their watery habitats.

Threats to Knifefish

The Knifefish animal is facing several threats that are putting its survival at risk. One major threat is habitat loss. As humans continue to expand their cities and villages, the natural habitats of Knifefish are being destroyed. This means that they are losing their homes, including the rivers, streams, and swamps they need to live in. Without a suitable habitat, Knifefish struggle to find food and may not be able to reproduce effectively.

Another threat to Knifefish is pollution. Humans often dump harmful substances like chemicals and plastics into the water. These pollutants can contaminate the Knifefish’s environment and poison them. The toxins can also harm the small organisms that Knifefish eat, leading to a decrease in their food supply. Pollution can weaken the Knifefish and make them more susceptible to diseases.

Overfishing is also a big concern for Knifefish. Some people catch Knifefish for food or for the aquarium trade in large numbers. When too many Knifefish are taken out of their natural habitat, it disrupts the balance of the ecosystem. This imbalance can have negative effects on other species that depend on Knifefish for survival.

To protect the Knifefish animal, it is crucial to address these threats. Measures should be taken to conserve their natural habitats, such as creating protected areas where they can live safely. Additionally, efforts should be made to reduce water pollution by enforcing strict laws and encouraging sustainable practices. Lastly, regulations should be put in place to limit the amount of Knifefish that can be caught, helping to maintain a balance in their population and preserve their role in the ecosystem. It is important that we all work together to ensure the survival of the Knifefish and protect the biodiversity of our planet.

Population of Knifefish

The population of knifefish animals is not known exactly, but it is assumed that there are many species of knifefish found in rivers and lakes all around the world. Since there are so many different types of knifefish, it is difficult to estimate the total population. However, it is believed that the overall population is quite large.

Unfortunately, some species of knifefish have become extinct over time. It is sad to think that these amazing creatures no longer exist. Extinction means that a species has completely died out and can no longer be found anywhere in the world. This can happen for many reasons, such as habitat destruction, pollution, or overhunting.

To prevent more knifefish species from going extinct, it is important that we take care of our environment and protect their natural habitats. It is also necessary to reduce pollution in rivers and lakes where they live. By doing these things, we can help ensure that knifefish animals can continue to thrive and be enjoyed by future generations.

Conclusion

In brief, the world of aquatic life is full of fascinating creatures, and the knifefish is no exception. This unique aquatic animal, also known as the “knifefish,” has a rich history and many interesting facts surrounding it.

Firstly, knifefish are wonderfully diverse creatures, with over 200 different species found in various parts of the world. The Amazon basin in South America is home to the largest variety of knifefish species, where they thrive in the calm freshwater habitats. These amazing animals have adapted to their environment over time, developing long, slender bodies and sleek blades on their undersides. These structures help them to effectively glide through the water as they hunt for food and evade predators.

In terms of size, most knifefish are relatively small, typically measuring anywhere from a few inches to a few feet long. However, some larger species can reach lengths of up to three meters! Despite their size, they are known for their ability to create electrical fields to detect their surroundings, making them exceptional at navigation and locating prey.

In conclusion, knifefish are incredibly intriguing. These unique aquatic creatures, with their distinct adaptations and behavior, offer a glimpse into the wonders of the animal world. Their diversity, habitat, size, and classification make them a topic of interest for animal lovers and researchers alike. So if you ever have the chance to learn more about these fascinating creatures, dive right in and explore the captivating world of knifefish!

Frequently Asked Questions about Knifefish (FAQ’s)

Q1: What is a knifefish animal?
A1: A knifefish animal is a type of freshwater fish known for its long, slender body and knife-like shape.

Q2: Where do knifefish animals live?
A2: Knifefish animals are found mainly in warm freshwater rivers, streams, and lakes.

Q3: Do knifefish animals have scales?
A3: No, knifefish animals do not have scales. Instead, their skin is smooth and covered in a layer of mucus.

Q4: Are knifefish animals nocturnal?
A4: Yes, knifefish animals are primarily active during the night and rest during the day.

Q5: What do knifefish animals eat?
A5: Knifefish animals are carnivorous and feed on various invertebrates like insects, small fish, and worms.

Q6: How big do knifefish animals grow?
A6: The size of knifefish animals varies depending on the species, but they can range from a few inches to several feet in length.

Q7: Can knifefish animals produce electric shocks?
A7: Yes, some species of knifefish animals have electrical organs that allow them to produce weak electric fields for navigation and communication.

Q8: Do knifefish animals make good pets?
A8: Knifefish animals can be challenging to keep as pets due to their specific care requirements. They require spacious tanks, proper filtration, and a suitable diet.

Q9: How do knifefish animals reproduce?
A9: Knifefish animals are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs that are fertilized externally. The adults provide little to no parental care for their offspring.

Q10: Are knifefish animals aggressive?
A10: While knifefish animals are generally peaceful, some species can become territorial and aggressive towards their own kind or other fish.

Q11: Can knifefish animals breathe air?
A11: Yes, most knifefish animals possess a specialized respiratory structure called a labyrinth organ that allows them to breathe atmospheric air.

Q12: How long do knifefish animals live?
A12: The lifespan of knifefish animals can vary greatly depending on the species, but they can generally live for around 10 to 15 years in captivity.

Q13: Do knifefish animals have good eyesight?
A13: Knifefish animals have adapted to low-light conditions but rely more on their electrical senses rather than vision.

Q14: Are knifefish animals endangered?
A14: While certain species of knifefish animals may face threats due to habitat loss and pollution, many are not considered endangered at present.

Q15: Can knifefish animals be kept in community aquariums?
A15: It is not recommended to keep knifefish animals in community aquariums, as they may be prone to territorial behavior and can prey on smaller tank mates.

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