Fin's Fish Guide
The Henry's mormyrid (Isichthys henryi) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 29 cm.
Fresh water of Central and West Africa (the Congo basin and surroundings), in calm, turbid rivers and creeks.
Description
Henry's mormyrid is an elongate African fish of the family Mormyridae (elephantfishes) reaching about 29 cm. The brown-black body has a long dorsal and anal fin running rearward and a notably thin tail base. Like all elephantfishes it generates weak electric pulses with an organ in the tail; with them it orients in turbid water, recognises conspecifics and communicates - a kind of 'electric language'. The species comes from the Congo basin and surroundings in Central and West Africa and lives in quiet, turbid rivers and creeks. Mainly at night it hunts insect larvae, worms and small crustaceans. Elephantfishes have a proportionally very large brain mass, linked to their electric sense.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Henry's mormyrid?
The Henry's mormyrid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Elongate African elephantfish with a long dorsal and anal fin and a thin caudal peduncle; generates weak electric pulses.
Where does the Henry's mormyrid live?
The Henry's mormyrid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of Central and West Africa (the Congo basin and surroundings), in calm, turbid rivers and creeks.
How big does the Henry's mormyrid get?
The Henry's mormyrid grows to a maximum of about 29 cm.
Is the Henry's mormyrid dangerous to humans?
No, the Henry's mormyrid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Henry's mormyrid edible?
The Henry's mormyrid is rarely eaten.
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More from the family Mormyridae
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