Fin's Fish Guide
The Teugels' electric catfish (Malapterurus teugelsi) is a freshwater fish of the family Malapteruridae that grows up to 21 cm.
Description
Teugels' electric catfish is an electric catfish (Malapteruridae) from fresh water of the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a stocky, sausage-shaped, grey-brown body with barbels, small eyes and no dorsal fin. Beneath the skin lies a powerful electric organ with which it stuns prey and defends itself. As a nocturnal bottom predator it hunts fish and crustaceans in turbid water. On contact it can deliver a powerful electric shock.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Teugels' electric catfish?
The Teugels' electric catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Teugels' electric catfish live?
The Teugels' electric catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Guinea
How big does the Teugels' electric catfish get?
The Teugels' electric catfish grows to a maximum of about 21 cm.
Is the Teugels' electric catfish dangerous to humans?
The Teugels' electric catfish can cause injury; handle it with care. This fish can deliver a powerful electric shock causing muscle cramp and brief numbness; do not touch it. A shock in the water can lead to drowning, so bring an affected person to dry land at once and keep watch. For heart symptoms or persistent complaints seek medical help.
Want the complete picture on the Teugels' electric catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Teugels' electric catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Teugels' electric catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Teugels' electric catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.