Fin's Fish Guide
The Dark stonebasher (Pollimyrus nigricans) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The dark stonebasher is a small African elephantfish of the family Mormyridae from East Africa. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky, dark body with a blunt snout. It prefers shallow mud-bottomed waters near shore vegetation such as papyrus and Vossia. Like other elephantfishes it generates weak electric fields to orient itself and communicate in turbid water. It feeds on aquatic insects, mainly midge larvae. Elephantfishes are known for their relatively large brains. The dark stonebasher is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dark stonebasher?
The Dark stonebasher has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Weak electric organ and a relatively large brain; inhabits papyrus-rich muddy waters.
Where does the Dark stonebasher live?
The Dark stonebasher lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. East Africa; shallow muddy-bottomed waters near bank vegetation.
How big does the Dark stonebasher get?
The Dark stonebasher grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Dark stonebasher dangerous to humans?
No, the Dark stonebasher is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dark stonebasher edible?
The Dark stonebasher is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pollimyrus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Dark stonebasher?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dark stonebasher is one of 12,519 species in the app.