Fin's Fish Guide
The African pike (Hepsetus odoe) is a freshwater fish of the family Hepsetidae that grows up to 44 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving water of rivers, swamps and floodplains with abundant aquatic plants.
Description
The African pike is a pike-like predator of the family Hepsetidae reaching about 44 cm. Through evolutionary convergence it strongly resembles a pike: an elongate body with a far-set-back dorsal fin and a large, pointed mouth full of sharp canine teeth. Unlike a true pike it has, as a characin relative, a small adipose fin. The species comes from the fresh water of West and Central Africa and lives in slow water of rivers, swamps and floodplains with abundant plants. As an ambush predator it lurks among the plants and strikes fiercely at other fish. In the rainy season the parents build a foam nest and guard the eggs and young. It is a valued food and sport fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African pike?
The African pike has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Pike-like predator with an elongated body, a dorsal fin set far back, an adipose fin and a large mouth full of sharp canine teeth.
Where does the African pike live?
The African pike lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving water of rivers, swamps and floodplains with abundant aquatic plants.
How big does the African pike get?
The African pike grows to a maximum of about 44 cm.
Is the African pike dangerous to humans?
No, the African pike is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African pike edible?
Yes, the African pike is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the African pike?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African pike is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Want the complete picture on the African pike?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African pike is one of 12,519 species in the app.