Fin's Fish Guide
The Bottle-nose (Mormyrus lacerda) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The western bottlenose mormyrid is an elephantfish (Mormyridae) from southern Africa. The species has an elongate body with a downward-curved, tube-like snout and a long dorsal fin. It prefers quiet stretches of river channels, deep pools and floodplain lagoons with aquatic plants and may form small shoals. With a weak electric organ in the tail it navigates in turbid water and locates prey. With its snout it roots in the bottom for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bottle-nose?
The Bottle-nose has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Downward-curved, tube-like snout; weakly electric elephantfish of southern Africa.
Where does the Bottle-nose live?
The Bottle-nose lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern Africa; calm river channels, deep pools and flood lagoons.
How big does the Bottle-nose get?
The Bottle-nose grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Bottle-nose dangerous to humans?
No, the Bottle-nose is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bottle-nose edible?
Yes, the Bottle-nose is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mormyrus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Bottle-nose?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bottle-nose is one of 12,519 species in the app.