Fin's Fish Guide
The Tanganyika electric catfish (Malapterurus tanganyikaensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Malapteruridae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The Tanganyika electric catfish is an electric catfish endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a stocky, scaleless, greyish body with barbels and a rounded profile. An electric organ surrounds the body, with which it can generate a powerful shock to stun prey and defend itself; that shock can also give a person a painful surprise. As a nocturnal hunter it shelters among rocks by day. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tanganyika electric catfish?
The Tanganyika electric catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Electric organ that generates a powerful electric shock; nocturnal hunter
Where does the Tanganyika electric catfish live?
The Tanganyika electric catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Lake Tanganyika (endemic)
How big does the Tanganyika electric catfish get?
The Tanganyika electric catfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Tanganyika electric catfish dangerous to humans?
The Tanganyika electric catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. This catfish can deliver a powerful electric shock. Do not handle it; if shocked, let go, stay calm and seek medical help for heart symptoms or persistent complaints.
Is the Tanganyika electric catfish edible?
The Tanganyika electric catfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Malapterurus
More from the family Malapteruridae
Want the complete picture on the Tanganyika electric catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tanganyika electric catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.