Fin's Fish Guide
The Churchill (Petrocephalus catostoma) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The churchill (Petrocephalus catostoma) is an African elephantfish (Mormyridae) from fresh water of southern and eastern Africa, including the Zambezi system. The species has a stocky, silvery-grey body with a blunt, rounded head and reaches about 15 cm. It occurs in shallow, muddy waters, sheltered bays, lagoons and swampy zones and prefers calm, densely vegetated parts of rivers. Like other mormyrids it has a weak electric organ with which it orients itself and communicates. It forms schools and feeds on small invertebrates. The species is of local importance for subsistence fisheries and is regularly eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Churchill?
The Churchill has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Weak electric organ and a blunt head; forms shoals in vegetated, calm waters.
Where does the Churchill live?
The Churchill lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of southern and eastern Africa (Zambezi system).
How big does the Churchill get?
The Churchill grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Churchill dangerous to humans?
No, the Churchill 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 Churchill edible?
Yes, the Churchill is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Churchill?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Churchill is one of 12,519 species in the app.