Fin's Fish Guide
The African longfin eel (Anguilla mossambica) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Anguillidae that grows up to 150 cm.
East and southern Africa and Madagascar; rivers, spawns in the Indian Ocean.
Description
The African longfin eel is a large freshwater eel of the family Anguillidae from East and southern Africa and Madagascar. The species can reach about 1.5 metres and has an elongate, snake-like body with a long dorsal fin beginning well before the anal fin, to which the name refers. It is a catadromous species: adults migrate to the Indian Ocean to spawn, while young eels (glass eels) ascend rivers, through both fast-flowing and still water. As a nocturnal predator it hunts fishes, crustaceans and insects. Owing to overfishing and barriers the species is listed as Near Threatened (NT). It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African longfin eel?
The African longfin eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Catadromous eel with a long dorsal fin that begins well before the anal fin; migrates to the Indian Ocean to spawn.
Where does the African longfin eel live?
The African longfin eel lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. East and southern Africa and Madagascar; rivers, spawns in the Indian Ocean.
How big does the African longfin eel get?
The African longfin eel grows to a maximum of about 150 cm.
Is the African longfin eel dangerous to humans?
No, the African longfin eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African longfin eel edible?
Yes, the African longfin eel is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anguilla
More from the family Anguillidae
Want the complete picture on the African longfin eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African longfin eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.