Fin's Fish Guide
The Black spiny eel (Mastacembelus niger) is a freshwater fish of the family Mastacembelidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Fresh water of West Africa, in slow-moving to flowing water with soft or vegetated bottoms.
Description
The black spiny eel is an eel-shaped freshwater fish of the family Mastacembelidae (spiny eels) reaching about 38 cm. The elongate, dark-marbled body has an extended, mobile, pointed snout with which the fish probes the bottom for prey, and a row of separate, short spines before the soft dorsal fin (hence 'spiny eel'). The species comes from West Africa and lives in slow to flowing water with soft or vegetated bottoms, where it buries itself half in the sand or among plants by day. At night it searches for insect larvae, worms and small crustaceans. For its unusual shape it is popular in the aquarium hobby, and locally it is a valued food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black spiny eel?
The Black spiny eel has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Eel-shaped freshwater fish with an elongated, mobile snout and a row of separate spines in front of the dorsal fin; buries itself in the bottom during the day.
Where does the Black spiny eel live?
The Black spiny eel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of West Africa, in slow-moving to flowing water with soft or vegetated bottoms.
How big does the Black spiny eel get?
The Black spiny eel grows to a maximum of about 38 cm.
Is the Black spiny eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Black spiny eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black spiny eel edible?
Yes, the Black spiny eel is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mastacembelus
More from the family Mastacembelidae
Want the complete picture on the Black spiny eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black spiny eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.