Fin's Fish Guide
The Elephant Fish (Pollimyrus isidori) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
Pollimyrus isidori is a small African elephantfish (Mormyridae) from fresh water of the Sahel region, including the Nile and the swamps of the Sudd. The species has a stocky, silvery-grey body and reaches about 10 cm. It inhabits floodplain pools. Like other mormyrids it has a weak electric organ with which it orients itself in turbid water and communicates with conspecifics; males of the genus Pollimyrus are known for their complex courtship based on electric signals. It feeds on mud, plant debris and small invertebrates. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Elephant Fish?
The Elephant Fish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Weak electric organ; males with a complex courtship based on electric signals.
Where does the Elephant Fish live?
The Elephant Fish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Floodplains of the Sahel region in Africa.
How big does the Elephant Fish get?
The Elephant Fish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Elephant Fish dangerous to humans?
No, the Elephant Fish 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 Elephant Fish edible?
The Elephant Fish 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 Elephant Fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Elephant Fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.