Fin's Fish Guide
The Slender stonebasher (Mormyrops sirenoides) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 63 cm.
Description
The slender stonebasher is a large African elephantfish of the family Mormyridae from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 63 cm and has an elongate, dark body with a blunt, rounded snout. Like other elephantfishes it generates weak electric fields to orient itself in turbid water, find prey and communicate with conspecifics. As a predator it hunts, mainly at night, small fishes and large invertebrates. Elephantfishes are known for their relatively large brains. The species is eaten locally and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slender stonebasher?
The Slender stonebasher has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large elephantfish with a weak electric organ; nocturnal predator of fishes and invertebrates.
Where does the Slender stonebasher live?
The Slender stonebasher lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Central Africa; rivers of the Congo basin.
How big does the Slender stonebasher get?
The Slender stonebasher grows to a maximum of about 63 cm.
Is the Slender stonebasher dangerous to humans?
No, the Slender stonebasher is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Slender stonebasher edible?
The Slender stonebasher is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mormyrops
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Slender stonebasher?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slender stonebasher is one of 12,519 species in the app.