Fin's Fish Guide
The Black dwarf elephantfish (Brevimyrus niger) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Brevimyrus niger is a small African elephantfish (Mormyridae) from fresh water of the Sahel region, including the Nile, the Niger and the swamps of the Sudd in South Sudan. The species has a stocky, dark body and reaches about 15 cm. It stays among fringing vegetation and migrates onto the floodplain to spawn. Like other mormyrids it has a weak electric organ with which it orients itself in turbid water, locates prey and communicates with conspecifics. It feeds on small invertebrates and insect larvae on the bottom. The species occurs mainly inland and rarely in the lower courses of basins.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black dwarf elephantfish?
The Black dwarf elephantfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Weak electric organ; dweller of bank vegetation that migrates onto the floodplain.
Where does the Black dwarf elephantfish live?
The Black dwarf elephantfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Fresh water of the Sahel region (Nile, Niger, Sudd).
How big does the Black dwarf elephantfish get?
The Black dwarf elephantfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Black dwarf elephantfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Black dwarf elephantfish 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 Black dwarf elephantfish edible?
The Black dwarf elephantfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Black dwarf elephantfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black dwarf elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.