Fin's Fish Guide
The Flatbody spiny eel (Mastacembelus platysoma) is a freshwater fish of the family Mastacembelidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The flatbody spiny eel is a spiny eel (Mastacembelidae) endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species has an elongate, strongly laterally compressed body with an extended, mobile snout and a row of free spinelets just before the soft dorsal fin. It inhabits rocky coastal zones of the lake, where by day it shelters in crevices and at night forages. With its snout it searches the bottom for insect larvae, worms and small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flatbody spiny eel?
The Flatbody spiny eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Mobile snout and separate small dorsal spines; endemic spiny eel of Lake Tanganyika.
Where does the Flatbody spiny eel live?
The Flatbody spiny eel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; rocky coastal zones.
How big does the Flatbody spiny eel get?
The Flatbody spiny eel grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Flatbody spiny eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Flatbody spiny eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Flatbody spiny eel edible?
The Flatbody spiny eel is rarely 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 Flatbody spiny eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flatbody spiny eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.