Fin's Fish Guide
The Brienomyrus elephantfish (Brienomyrus brachyistius) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving water of rivers, creeks and swamps.
Description
The Brienomyrus elephantfish is a dark elephantfish of the family Mormyridae (elephantfishes) reaching about 20 cm. Unlike the species with a long 'trunk' it has a short, blunt snout with a terminal mouth. Characteristic of the family is a weak electric organ in the tail base, with which it generates an electric field to orient itself in turbid water and communicate with conspecifics; the species is widely used in research on this electric communication. It comes from West and Central Africa and lives in slow water of rivers, creeks and swamps. At night it searches the bottom for insect larvae, worms and small invertebrates. Because of its small size it has little fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brienomyrus elephantfish?
The Brienomyrus elephantfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Dark elephantfish with a short, blunt snout and a weak electric organ with which it navigates and communicates with conspecifics.
Where does the Brienomyrus elephantfish live?
The Brienomyrus elephantfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving water of rivers, creeks and swamps.
How big does the Brienomyrus elephantfish get?
The Brienomyrus elephantfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Brienomyrus elephantfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Brienomyrus elephantfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Brienomyrus elephantfish edible?
The Brienomyrus elephantfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Brienomyrus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Brienomyrus elephantfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brienomyrus elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.