Fin's Fish Guide
The Palespot elephantfish (Petrocephalus pallidomaculatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The palespot elephantfish is an elephantfish from West Africa. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky, silver-grey body with a small terminal mouth and often a pale spot behind the 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. It is nocturnal. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Palespot elephantfish?
The Palespot elephantfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Weakly electric organ; pale blotch behind the head
Where does the Palespot elephantfish live?
The Palespot elephantfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West Africa
How big does the Palespot elephantfish get?
The Palespot elephantfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Palespot elephantfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Palespot 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 Palespot elephantfish edible?
The Palespot elephantfish is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Palespot elephantfish?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Petrocephalus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Palespot elephantfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Palespot elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.