Fin's Fish Guide
The Bulldog (Marcusenius macrolepidotus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 32 cm.
Fresh water of southern and eastern Africa, in slow-moving water of rivers, lakes and floodplains.
Description
The bulldog is a dark elephantfish of the family Mormyridae (elephantfishes) reaching about 32 cm. Beneath the mouth sits a short, mobile chin appendage with which the fish probes the bottom. Characteristic of the family is a weak electric organ in the tail base, with which it orients itself in turbid water and communicates with conspecifics; the long dorsal and anal fins stand opposite each other. The species comes from southern and eastern Africa and lives in slow water of rivers, lakes and floodplains. At night it searches the bottom for insect larvae, worms and small invertebrates. It is a locally valued food fish and a much-used animal in research on electric communication.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bulldog?
The Bulldog has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Dark elephantfish with a short chin appendage and a weak electric organ; the long dorsal and anal fins are set opposite each other.
Where does the Bulldog live?
The Bulldog lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of southern and eastern Africa, in slow-moving water of rivers, lakes and floodplains.
How big does the Bulldog get?
The Bulldog grows to a maximum of about 32 cm.
Is the Bulldog dangerous to humans?
No, the Bulldog is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bulldog edible?
Yes, the Bulldog is commonly eaten.
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All data
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Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Marcusenius
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Bulldog?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bulldog is one of 12,519 species in the app.