Fin's Fish Guide
The Maria's elephantfish (Mormyrops mariae) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
Maria's elephantfish is an elephantfish from West and Central Africa. The species grows to about 17 cm and has an elongate, dark body with a blunt head. Like all elephantfishes it generates a weak electric field with an electric organ in the tail region to navigate in turbid water, find prey and communicate with conspecifics. It is nocturnal and searches the bottom for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Maria's elephantfish?
The Maria's elephantfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Weakly electric organ for navigation and communication in turbid water
Where does the Maria's elephantfish live?
The Maria's elephantfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West and Central Africa
How big does the Maria's elephantfish get?
The Maria's elephantfish grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Maria's elephantfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Maria's 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.
Is the Maria's elephantfish edible?
The Maria's elephantfish is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Maria's elephantfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Maria's elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Maria's elephantfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Maria's elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.