Fin's Fish Guide
The Slendertail stonebasher (Petrocephalus tenuicauda) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The slendertail stonebasher is a small African elephantfish of the family Mormyridae from West Africa. The species grows to about 11 cm and has a stocky, silvery-grey body with a blunt head lacking the long snout of many relatives, and a conspicuously slender tail stem to which the name refers. Like other elephantfishes it generates weak electric fields to orient itself in turbid water and communicate with conspecifics. As a bottom dweller it feeds on insect larvae and other small invertebrates. Owing to its small size the species is of limited fishery interest and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slendertail stonebasher?
The Slendertail stonebasher has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Blunt head and a strikingly narrow caudal peduncle; weak electric organ for orientation.
Where does the Slendertail stonebasher live?
The Slendertail stonebasher lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West Africa; rivers and streams.
How big does the Slendertail stonebasher get?
The Slendertail stonebasher grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Slendertail stonebasher dangerous to humans?
No, the Slendertail stonebasher is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Slendertail stonebasher edible?
The Slendertail stonebasher is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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
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