Fin's Fish Guide
The Ngai (Hyperopisus bebe) is a brackish-water fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 51 cm.
Fresh water of the Sahel region and North-East Africa (Nile, Niger, Senegal).
Description
Hyperopisus bebe is an African elephantfish (Mormyridae) from fresh water of the Sahel region and Northeast Africa, including the Nile, the Niger and the Senegal. The species has a streamlined, silvery-grey body with a downward-pointing snout and reaches about 51 cm. It inhabits both still and flowing waters and breeds in the flood season. Like other mormyrids it has electroreceptors over almost the entire body and a weak electric organ with which it orients itself in turbid water. It feeds mainly on mollusks, which it picks from the bottom. Owing to its size the species is important for fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ngai?
The Ngai has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Weak electric organ and a downward-pointing snout to pick molluscs off the bottom.
Where does the Ngai live?
The Ngai lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of the Sahel region and North-East Africa (Nile, Niger, Senegal).
How big does the Ngai get?
The Ngai grows to a maximum of about 51 cm.
Is the Ngai dangerous to humans?
No, the Ngai 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 Ngai edible?
Yes, the Ngai is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Ngai?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ngai is one of 12,519 species in the app.