Fin's Fish Guide
The Malawi spinyeel (Mastacembelus shiranus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mastacembelidae that grows up to 26 cm.
Description
The Malawi spinyeel is a spiny eel from fresh water of southern Africa, in Lake Malawi and the Shire River. The species grows to about 26 cm and has a strongly elongate, eel-like body with an extended snout and a row of separate spinelets before the dorsal fin. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day among rocks, roots and in sand and searches at night for insect larvae, worms and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Malawi spinyeel?
The Malawi spinyeel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Elongated snout and separate small dorsal spines; nocturnal spiny eel
Where does the Malawi spinyeel live?
The Malawi spinyeel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern Africa
How big does the Malawi spinyeel get?
The Malawi spinyeel grows to a maximum of about 26 cm.
Is the Malawi spinyeel dangerous to humans?
No, the Malawi spinyeel 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 Malawi spinyeel edible?
The Malawi spinyeel 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 Malawi spinyeel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Malawi spinyeel is one of 12,519 species in the app.