Fin's Fish Guide
The Ussher's elephantfish (Marcusenius ussheri) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 35 cm.
West Africa, in rivers of Ivory Coast and surrounding countries among others.
Description
Marcusenius ussheri is an African elephantfish (family Mormyridae) from rivers of West Africa. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a fusiform, dark brown-grey body with a small mouth and a short chin projection. Like other mormyrids it has a weak electric organ with which it orients itself in turbid water, locates prey and communicates with conspecifics. It lives demersally and feeds mainly on insect larvae and small bottom invertebrates. The species is a fractional spawner and is active mostly at night. It is harmless to humans and of only minor fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ussher's elephantfish?
The Ussher's elephantfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Weakly electric elephantfish that scans its surroundings with electric pulses; fractional spawner.
Where does the Ussher's elephantfish live?
The Ussher's elephantfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West Africa, in rivers of Ivory Coast and surrounding countries among others.
How big does the Ussher's elephantfish get?
The Ussher's elephantfish grows to a maximum of about 35 cm.
Is the Ussher's elephantfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Ussher's elephantfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ussher's elephantfish edible?
The Ussher's elephantfish is rarely eaten.
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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 Ussher's elephantfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ussher's elephantfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.