Fin's Fish Guide
The Moore's elephantfish (Marcusenius moorii) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 21 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving water of rivers, creeks and swamps.
Description
Moore's elephantfish is a dark elephantfish of the family Mormyridae (elephantfishes) reaching about 21 cm. Beneath the mouth sits a small, mobile chin projection with which the fish probes the bottom. Characteristic of the family is a weak electric organ in the tail base: with it the fish generates an electric field to orient itself in turbid water and communicate with conspecifics, and it has a remarkably large brain to process these signals. The species comes from West and Central Africa and lives in slow water of rivers, creeks and swamps. At night it searches the bottom for insect larvae, worms and small invertebrates. It is a locally valued food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Moore's elephantfish?
The Moore's elephantfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Dark elephantfish with a short chin projection beneath the mouth and a weak electric organ with which it orients itself and communicates.
Where does the Moore's elephantfish live?
The Moore's elephantfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving water of rivers, creeks and swamps.
How big does the Moore's elephantfish get?
The Moore's elephantfish grows to a maximum of about 21 cm.
Is the Moore's elephantfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Moore's elephantfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Moore's elephantfish edible?
Yes, the Moore's elephantfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Marcusenius
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Moore's elephantfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Moore's elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.