Fin's Fish Guide
The Thomas's elephantfish (Marcusenius thomasi) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
Thomas's elephantfish is an African weakly electric fish of the family Mormyridae from West Africa. The species has an elongate, laterally compressed, dark body with the dorsal and anal fins set far back, characteristic of this family, and a small, knobbly chin. Like all elephantfishes it generates a weak electric field with an organ in the tail base to navigate in turbid water, locate prey and communicate with conspecifics. It searches the bottom for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Thomas's elephantfish?
The Thomas's elephantfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Weakly electric elephantfish of West African rivers; navigates with an electric field.
Where does the Thomas's elephantfish live?
The Thomas's elephantfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West Africa; rivers and streams.
How big does the Thomas's elephantfish get?
The Thomas's elephantfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Thomas's elephantfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Thomas's elephantfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Thomas's elephantfish edible?
The Thomas's elephantfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Marcusenius
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Thomas's elephantfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Thomas's elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.