Fin's Fish Guide
The Trunkfish (Campylomormyrus tamandua) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 43 cm.
Description
Campylomormyrus tamandua, the wormjawed mormyrid, is an African elephantfish of the family Mormyridae from the Congo basin and West Africa. The species owes its name to its strongly elongate, thin, downward-curved snout, resembling a little worm, with which it probes mud and crevices for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The body is elongate and dark and reaches about 43 cm. Like other mormyrids the fish has a weak electric organ with which it orients itself and communicates; the discharges are sensitive to hormones. The species is of limited local fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Trunkfish?
The Trunkfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Greatly elongated, worm-like snout and a weak electric organ for searching in mud.
Where does the Trunkfish live?
The Trunkfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Freshwater of the Congo basin and West Africa.
How big does the Trunkfish get?
The Trunkfish grows to a maximum of about 43 cm.
Is the Trunkfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Trunkfish 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 Trunkfish edible?
The Trunkfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Campylomormyrus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Trunkfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Trunkfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.