The Zambezi parrotfish (Cyphomyrus discorhynchus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 31 cm.
Description
The Zambezi parrotfish is a dark African fish of the family Mormyridae (elephantfishes) reaching about 31 cm. The stocky, brown-black body has a high back and a short, blunt snout with an inferior mouth with which the fish searches the soft bottom for prey. Like all elephantfishes it generates weak electric pulses with an organ in the tail; with them it orients in turbid water, recognises conspecifics and communicates - a kind of 'electric language'. The species comes from southern and Central Africa, including the Zambezi basin, and lives in quiet, turbid rivers and lakes. Mainly at night it hunts insect larvae, worms and small crustaceans. Elephantfishes have a proportionally very large brain mass.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Zambezi parrotfish?
The Zambezi parrotfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Zambezi parrotfish live?
The Zambezi parrotfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Zambezi parrotfish get?
The Zambezi parrotfish grows to a maximum of about 31 cm.
Is the Zambezi parrotfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Zambezi parrotfish is harmless to humans.
Is the Zambezi parrotfish edible?
The Zambezi parrotfish is rarely eaten.
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More from the family Mormyridae
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