Fin's Fish Guide
The Eastern bottlenose mormyrid (Mormyrops attenuatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The eastern bottlenose mormyrid is an African freshwater fish of the elephantfish family (Mormyridae). The species has an elongate, silvery-grey to brownish body with a blunt, rounded snout and grows to about 22 cm. Like all elephantfishes it generates weak electric fields with which it navigates in turbid water, detects prey and communicates with conspecifics. It lives as a bottom dweller in rivers and streams and hunts mainly insect larvae and other small invertebrates. The electric discharges also play a role in territorial behaviour. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Eastern bottlenose mormyrid?
The Eastern bottlenose mormyrid has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Weak electric organ for orientation, hunting and communication in turbid water.
Where does the Eastern bottlenose mormyrid live?
The Eastern bottlenose mormyrid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. East and Central Africa; rivers and streams.
How big does the Eastern bottlenose mormyrid get?
The Eastern bottlenose mormyrid grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Eastern bottlenose mormyrid dangerous to humans?
No, the Eastern bottlenose mormyrid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
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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 Eastern bottlenose mormyrid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eastern bottlenose mormyrid is one of 12,519 species in the app.