Fin's Fish Guide
The Congo mormyrid (Mormyrus caballus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
Mormyrus caballus is an African elephantfish of the family Mormyridae from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has an elongate, silvery-grey body with a downward-pointing, snout-like mouth and a long dorsal fin, and reaches about 50 cm. It inhabits rivers, where it uses a weak electric organ to sense its surroundings, locate prey and communicate with conspecifics. It feeds mainly on insect larvae and small invertebrates on the bottom. Like other mormyrids the species has relatively large brains and a strongly developed electric sense. Owing to its size it is of local fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Congo mormyrid?
The Congo mormyrid has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Weak electric organ and a snout-shaped mouth for feeling the bottom.
Where does the Congo mormyrid live?
The Congo mormyrid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Rivers of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Congo mormyrid get?
The Congo mormyrid grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Congo mormyrid dangerous to humans?
No, the Congo mormyrid 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 Congo mormyrid edible?
The Congo mormyrid is rarely 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
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Congo mormyrid is one of 12,519 species in the app.