Fin's Fish Guide
The Long-snouted elephantfish (Campylomormyrus rhynchophorus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
Campylomormyrus rhynchophorus is an African elephantfish of the family Mormyridae from the Congo basin. The species owes its name to the strongly elongate, downward-curved snout, with which it probes mud and crevices for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The body is elongate and dark-coloured. Like other mormyrids the fish has a weak electric organ; electroreceptors cover almost the entire head and the dorsal and ventral surfaces, except the flanks and the caudal peduncle where the electric organ lies. With these it orients itself and communicates in turbid water. The species reaches about 22 cm.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Long-snouted elephantfish?
The Long-snouted elephantfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Greatly elongated, curved snout and a weak electric organ for searching for prey in turbid water.
Where does the Long-snouted elephantfish live?
The Long-snouted elephantfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Freshwater of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Long-snouted elephantfish get?
The Long-snouted elephantfish grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Long-snouted elephantfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Long-snouted elephantfish 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Campylomormyrus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Long-snouted elephantfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Long-snouted elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.