Fin's Fish Guide
The Cornish jack (Mormyrops anguilloides) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 150 cm.
Description
The cornish jack is a large, elongate elephantfish of the family Mormyridae reaching about 1.5 metres. Unlike many relatives it has no long 'trunk' but a rounded, blunt snout with a terminal mouth. 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 species comes from much of tropical Africa and lives in rivers, lakes and swamps. Remarkably, it hunts at night in coordinated groups for fish, insect larvae and crustaceans - rare pack-hunting behaviour among fish. With its size and tasty flesh it is a valued food and sport fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cornish jack?
The Cornish jack has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Large, elongate elephantfish with a rounded, blunt snout and a weak electric organ; hunts in groups at night.
Where does the Cornish jack live?
The Cornish jack lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of much of tropical Africa, in rivers, lakes and swamps.
How big does the Cornish jack get?
The Cornish jack grows to a maximum of about 150 cm.
Is the Cornish jack dangerous to humans?
No, the Cornish jack is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Cornish jack edible?
Yes, the Cornish jack is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mormyrops
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Cornish jack?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cornish jack is one of 12,519 species in the app.