Fin's Fish Guide
The Bates's stonebasher (Paramormyrops batesii) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Bates's stonebasher is an African elephantfish of the family Mormyridae from West-Central Africa, including the Ogooué drainage. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a streamlined, dark body with a blunt snout. Like other elephantfishes it generates weak electric fields with a species-specific discharge pattern; in this species the electric organ discharge (EOD) is sensitive to sex hormones, so males give a different signal, a role in mate recognition. As a bottom dweller it feeds on insect larvae and small invertebrates. Owing to limited data the species is assessed as Data Deficient (DD). It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bates's stonebasher?
The Bates's stonebasher has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Hormone-sensitive electric organ discharge (EOD) that differs between the sexes; data deficient (DD).
Where does the Bates's stonebasher live?
The Bates's stonebasher lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West-Central Africa; Ogooué basin and surroundings.
How big does the Bates's stonebasher get?
The Bates's stonebasher grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Bates's stonebasher dangerous to humans?
No, the Bates's stonebasher is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bates's stonebasher edible?
The Bates's stonebasher is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Paramormyrops
More from the family Mormyridae
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