Fin's Fish Guide
The Christy's stonebasher (Petrocephalus christyi) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
Petrocephalus christyi is a small African elephantfish (Mormyridae) from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has a stocky, silvery-grey body with a blunt, rounded head without the long snout of many relatives and grows to only a few centimetres. Like other mormyrids it produces weak electric discharges with which it orients itself in turbid water 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 and is mainly of interest for the biodiversity of Central African freshwater habitats.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Christy's stonebasher?
The Christy's stonebasher has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Weak electric organ; blunt head adapted to turbid water.
Where does the Christy's stonebasher live?
The Christy's stonebasher lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Freshwater of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Christy's stonebasher get?
The Christy's stonebasher grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Christy's stonebasher dangerous to humans?
No, the Christy's 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 Christy's stonebasher edible?
The Christy's stonebasher is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Petrocephalus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Christy's stonebasher?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Christy's stonebasher is one of 12,519 species in the app.