Quick Facts & Highlights
Species Name: Clown Knifefish
Scientific Name: Chitala ornata
Common Nicknames: Clown Featherback, Spotted Knifefish or Featherback
Species Category: Primitive & Unique
Available Lengths Range: 14'' to 28''
Mount Options & Base Rates:
Half Wall Mount: Starts at $160 minimum charge (applies 14" to 16")
Full Wall Mount: Starts at $17 per inch ($238 for 14")
360° Suspension Mount: Starts at $20 per inch ($280 for 14")
Catch Photo Matching: Included at no extra charge
Materials & Construction: High-density fiberglass composite cast from first-generation molds, hand-painted glass eyes set in epoxy, automotive-grade airbrush pigments, and UV-resistant urethane clear coat, built in the USA
Turnaround Time: Check the "Current Production Time" link in the website footer
The Ultimate South Florida Exotic
The Clown Knifefish is one of the most bizarre and sought-after exotic species in North America. Whether you specifically targeted these elusive predators in the Lake Ida chain or caught one by surprise, landing a fish that looks like a spotted silver blade is an experience worth remembering. Florida Fish Mounts, based in Cocoa, Florida, is the shop of artist Greg Cassell, specializing in custom-painted fiberglass Clown Knifefish replicas that turn your unique catch into a stunning conversation starter for your home décor.
The Modern Solution for Delicate Anatomy
Traditional skin taxidermy struggles heavily with the unique morphology of the knifefish. Their incredibly thin bodies and long, continuous anal fins are highly prone to shrinking, cracking, and deterioration over time as the skin dries and fails. Greg solves this structural flaw by utilizing professional-grade fiberglass blanks manufactured right here in Florida. This ensures the delicate fin structures and the sleek, humped profile remain permanently preserved without the fragility or inevitable decay of old-school taxidermy. We offer these custom builds in specific lengths of 14, 25, and 28 inches.
Anatomical Accuracy:
The Ocellated Spots A true Clown Knifefish (Chitala ornata) is defined by the distinctive row of large, ocellated spots along its lower flank. Because every fish has a slightly different spot pattern, Greg treats your catch as a unique individual. He meticulously hand-paints the specific layout of the spots to ensure top-tier biological accuracy, capturing the iridescent silver sheen that makes this species stand out.
Custom Pattern Matching (Optional)
While Greg offers custom pattern matching at no additional cost, a photo is not a requirement for your build. If you do not have a photo of your fish, no problem. Greg will hand-paint your replica to the traditional, striking silver and spotted phase of a mature Clown Knifefish. If you do have a photo you would like him to use as a roadmap to match your specific catch, simply upload it during the checkout process.
Select Your Mount Style
To begin your custom build, use the dropdown menus above to select your Mount Type and specific Length. We offer this model in 14, 25, and 28-inch sizes. Half Mounts for the 14-inch replica start at our $160 shop minimum, while the larger 25 and 28-inch models scale accordingly. Once you select your specific options, the final price will update automatically. Proceed through checkout to secure your place in Greg’s shop schedule.
