Fin's Fish Guide
The Bottlenose (Mormyrus kannume) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 100 cm.
Description
The elephant-snout fish is a large African elephantfish of the family Mormyridae from East Africa, including Lake Victoria and surrounding waters. The species grows to about one metre and has a streamlined, dark body with a long dorsal fin and a downward-curved, snout-like mouth with which it searches the bottom. Like other elephantfishes it generates weak electric fields to navigate in turbid water, find prey and communicate. It is solitary and nocturnal and feeds on insect larvae and other small bottom animals. The elephant-snout fish is of local fishery importance and harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bottlenose?
The Bottlenose has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Downward-curved, snout-like mouth and a weak electric organ; solitary and nocturnal.
Where does the Bottlenose live?
The Bottlenose lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. East Africa; Lake Victoria and surrounding lakes and rivers.
How big does the Bottlenose get?
The Bottlenose grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Bottlenose dangerous to humans?
No, the Bottlenose is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bottlenose edible?
Yes, the Bottlenose 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 Bottlenose?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bottlenose is one of 12,519 species in the app.