Fin's Fish Guide
The Donny's elephantfish (Genyomyrus donnyi) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 45 cm.
Widespread in the Congo basin in Central Africa, from the lower Congo basin to the Lualaba; tropical freshwater.
Description
Genyomyrus donnyi is an African elephantfish of the family Mormyridae, widespread in the Congo basin, from the lower Congo basin to the Lualaba, in Cameroon, the Central African Republic and both Congos. It grows to 45 centimetres and is a bottom dweller of tropical fresh water. Like all elephantfishes it generates weak electric fields to navigate turbid water, locate prey and communicate. It probably feeds on small bottom invertebrates. The fish has a single continuous spineless dorsal fin and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Donny's elephantfish?
The Donny's elephantfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Elephantfish that uses weak electric fields to navigate and communicate in turbid water.
Where does the Donny's elephantfish live?
The Donny's elephantfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Widespread in the Congo basin in Central Africa, from the lower Congo basin to the Lualaba; tropical freshwater.
How big does the Donny's elephantfish get?
The Donny's elephantfish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm.
Is the Donny's elephantfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Donny's elephantfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Donny's elephantfish edible?
The Donny's elephantfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
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 Donny's elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.