Fin's Fish Guide
The Elephantfish (Hippopotamyrus macrops) is a fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
The elephantfish is an elephantfish (Mormyridae) from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has a stocky, dark body with a small, blunt head and relatively large eyes. Like other elephantfishes it generates a weak electric field with an organ in the tail base to navigate in turbid water and find prey. It lives near the bottom in rivers and searches at night for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Elephantfish?
The Elephantfish is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Relatively large eyes; generates a weak electric field to navigate and find prey.
Where does the Elephantfish live?
The Elephantfish is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Central Africa; rivers of the Congo basin, near the bottom.
How big does the Elephantfish get?
The Elephantfish grows to a maximum of about 19 cm. On average the species is around 11 cm.
Is the Elephantfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Elephantfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Elephantfish edible?
The Elephantfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hippopotamyrus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Elephantfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.