Fin's Fish Guide
The Marche's spiny eel (Mastacembelus marchei) is a freshwater fish of the family Mastacembelidae that grows up to 33 cm.
Description
Mastacembelus marchei is an African spiny eel of the family Mastacembelidae from fresh water of Central and West Africa. The species has a strongly elongate, eel-like body with a pointed, mobile snout and a row of separate, sharp spines in front of the soft dorsal fin, from which the family takes its name. It reaches about 33 cm. By day the fish often hides buried in soft bottoms or among roots and plants; at night it hunts insect larvae, worms and other small invertebrates. The species is prized by advanced aquarists for its striking shape.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Marche's spiny eel?
The Marche's spiny eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Eel-like body with a mobile snout and a row of sharp spines in front of the dorsal fin; buries itself during the day.
Where does the Marche's spiny eel live?
The Marche's spiny eel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Fresh water of Central and West Africa.
How big does the Marche's spiny eel get?
The Marche's spiny eel grows to a maximum of about 33 cm.
Is the Marche's spiny eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Marche's spiny eel 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.
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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 Marche's spiny eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Marche's spiny eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.