Fin's Fish Guide
The Ansorge's stonebasher (Hippopotamyrus ansorgii) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
Hippopotamyrus ansorgii is an African elephantfish (Mormyridae) from fresh water of the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has a streamlined, silvery-grey body with a blunt head and reaches about 20 cm. Like other mormyrids it has a weak electric organ and electroreceptors with which it orients itself in turbid water, locates prey and communicates with conspecifics. It feeds on insect larvae and small invertebrates on the bottom. Mormyrids are known for their relatively large brains and complex social behaviour based on electric signals. The species is of limited local fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ansorge's stonebasher?
The Ansorge's stonebasher has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Weak electric organ for orientation and communication in turbid water.
Where does the Ansorge's stonebasher live?
The Ansorge's stonebasher lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Freshwater of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Ansorge's stonebasher get?
The Ansorge's stonebasher grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Ansorge's stonebasher dangerous to humans?
No, the Ansorge's stonebasher is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Ansorge's stonebasher edible?
The Ansorge's stonebasher is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hippopotamyrus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Ansorge's stonebasher?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ansorge's stonebasher is one of 12,519 species in the app.