Fin's Fish Guide
The Sanaga elephantfish (Marcusenius sanagaensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The Sanaga elephantfish is an elephantfish from the Sanaga basin in Cameroon, West Africa. The species grows to about 17 cm and has an elongate body with a small, downward-directed mouth with a chin appendage. 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 with conspecifics. It is nocturnal and searches the bottom for insect larvae. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sanaga elephantfish?
The Sanaga elephantfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Weakly electric organ for navigation and communication; chin appendage
Where does the Sanaga elephantfish live?
The Sanaga elephantfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Sanaga river basin
How big does the Sanaga elephantfish get?
The Sanaga elephantfish grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Sanaga elephantfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Sanaga 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 Sanaga elephantfish edible?
The Sanaga elephantfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Marcusenius
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Sanaga elephantfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sanaga elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.