Fin's Fish Guide
The Mastacembelus plagiostomus is a freshwater fish of the family Mastacembelidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The Malawi spiny eel is a spiny eel endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a strongly elongate, eel-like body with a pointed, extended snout and a row of separate spinelets before the dorsal fin. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day among rocks 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 Mastacembelus plagiostomus?
The Mastacembelus plagiostomus has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Elongated pointed snout and separate small dorsal spines; nocturnal spiny eel
Where does the Mastacembelus plagiostomus live?
The Mastacembelus plagiostomus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Lake Malawi (endemic)
How big does the Mastacembelus plagiostomus get?
The Mastacembelus plagiostomus grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Mastacembelus plagiostomus dangerous to humans?
No, the Mastacembelus plagiostomus 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 Mastacembelus plagiostomus edible?
The Mastacembelus plagiostomus is rarely eaten.
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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 Mastacembelus plagiostomus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mastacembelus plagiostomus is one of 12,519 species in the app.