Fin's Fish Guide
The Mormyrids (Mormyrus macrophthalmus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The largeeye mormyrid is an elephantfish (Mormyridae) from West Africa. The species has an elongate body with a downward-curved snout, a long dorsal fin and relatively large eyes, to which the name refers. It inhabits rivers and streams. With a weak electric organ in the tail it navigates in turbid water, locates prey and communicates with conspecifics. With its snout it roots in the bottom for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mormyrids?
The Mormyrids has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Downward-curved snout and relatively large eyes; weakly electric West African elephantfish.
Where does the Mormyrids live?
The Mormyrids lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West Africa; rivers and streams.
How big does the Mormyrids get?
The Mormyrids grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Mormyrids dangerous to humans?
No, the Mormyrids is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Mormyrids edible?
Yes, the Mormyrids is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mormyrus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Mormyrids?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mormyrids is one of 12,519 species in the app.