Fin's Fish Guide
The Taverne's elephantfish (Brienomyrus tavernei) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
Taverne's elephantfish is an elephantfish from the upper Lualaba basin in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The species grows to about 14 cm and has an elongate body, typical of the elephantfishes. Like all elephantfishes it generates a weak electric field with an electric organ in the tail region, which it uses 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 Taverne's elephantfish?
The Taverne's elephantfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Weakly electric organ for navigation and communication in turbid water
Where does the Taverne's elephantfish live?
The Taverne's elephantfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Congo basin
How big does the Taverne's elephantfish get?
The Taverne's elephantfish grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Taverne's elephantfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Taverne's 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 Taverne's elephantfish edible?
The Taverne's elephantfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Brienomyrus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Taverne's elephantfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Taverne's elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.