Fin's Fish Guide
The Dark elephantfish (Mormyrops nigricans) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 34 cm.
Description
Mormyrops nigricans is an African elephantfish of the family Mormyridae from fresh water of West and Central Africa. The species has an elongate, dark body with a fairly large mouth for a mormyrid and reaches about 34 cm. Unlike most mormyrids, which eat small invertebrates, the genus Mormyrops is decidedly predatory and hunts other fishes. Like other mormyrids the species has a weak electric organ with which it orients itself in turbid water and communicates with conspecifics; some relatives even hunt in groups. The species is of local fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dark elephantfish?
The Dark elephantfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Predatory mormyrid with a weak electric organ; hunts other fishes.
Where does the Dark elephantfish live?
The Dark elephantfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of West and Central Africa.
How big does the Dark elephantfish get?
The Dark elephantfish grows to a maximum of about 34 cm.
Is the Dark elephantfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Dark elephantfish 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 Dark elephantfish edible?
The Dark elephantfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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 Dark elephantfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dark elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.