Fin's Fish Guide
The Monsembe electric catfish (Malapterurus monsembeensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Malapteruridae that grows up to 58 cm.
Description
The Monsembe electric catfish is an electric catfish (Malapteruridae) from fresh water of the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 58 cm and has a cylindrical, grey-brown body without a dorsal fin but with three pairs of barbels. Like related electric catfish it can generate electric shocks with specialised muscle tissue to stun prey and defend itself; it hunts fish and invertebrates at night. The shock is unpleasant, but the fish is not life-threatening to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Monsembe electric catfish?
The Monsembe electric catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Monsembe electric catfish live?
The Monsembe electric catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Africa: Angola, Central Afr. Rp, Congo, Congo Dem Rp
How big does the Monsembe electric catfish get?
The Monsembe electric catfish grows to a maximum of about 58 cm.
Is the Monsembe electric catfish dangerous to humans?
The Monsembe electric catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. Do not touch a live fish with bare hands; the electric shock is unpleasant but rarely dangerous. Anyone shocked should release the fish and steady themselves to avoid a fall. Seek medical help for heart complaints or persistent symptoms.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Malapterurus
More from the family Malapteruridae
Want the complete picture on the Monsembe electric catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Monsembe electric catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.