Fin's Fish Guide
The Elephant snout (Mormyrus hasselquistii) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
Hasselquist's elephantfish is an African elephantfish of the family Mormyridae from the Nile, Niger and Chad basins and West Africa. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a streamlined, dark body with a long dorsal fin and a downward-curved snout. It has electroreceptors over the whole head and along the belly and back, with which it senses the weak electric field it generates to orient itself in turbid water, find prey and communicate. As a bottom dweller it feeds on insect larvae and small invertebrates. Elephantfishes are known for their relatively large brains. The species is eaten locally and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Elephant snout?
The Elephant snout has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Electroreceptors over the whole head and body; downward-curved snout for searching in sediment.
Where does the Elephant snout live?
The Elephant snout lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa; Nile, Niger and Chad basins and West African rivers.
How big does the Elephant snout get?
The Elephant snout grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Elephant snout dangerous to humans?
No, the Elephant snout is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Elephant snout edible?
The Elephant snout is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mormyrus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Elephant snout?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Elephant snout is one of 12,519 species in the app.