Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackfin stonebasher (Pollimyrus nigripinnis) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
Pollimyrus nigripinnis is a small African elephantfish (Mormyridae) from fresh water of West and Central Africa. The species has a stocky, silvery-grey body with dark fins, to which the name refers, and reaches about 11 cm. Like other mormyrids it has electroreceptors over almost the entire head and the dorsal and ventral surfaces, except on the flanks and caudal peduncle, where the weak electric organ lies. With these it orients itself in turbid water, locates prey and communicates with conspecifics. It feeds on small invertebrates and insect larvae on the bottom. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackfin stonebasher?
The Blackfin stonebasher has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Dark fins and a weak electric organ for orientation in turbid water.
Where does the Blackfin stonebasher live?
The Blackfin stonebasher lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of West and Central Africa.
How big does the Blackfin stonebasher get?
The Blackfin stonebasher grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Blackfin stonebasher dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackfin 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 Blackfin stonebasher edible?
The Blackfin stonebasher is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pollimyrus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Blackfin stonebasher?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackfin stonebasher is one of 12,519 species in the app.