Fin's Fish Guide
The Mormyrids (Mormyrus rume) is a freshwater fish of the family Mormyridae that grows up to 100 cm.
Rivers of West, Central and northeast Africa, including the Nile, Niger and Senegal.
Description
Mormyrus rume is a large African freshwater fish of the elephantfish family (Mormyridae). It has a streamlined, silvery-grey to brownish body, a downward-pointing snout-like mouth and a long dorsal fin. The species can reach about one metre and inhabits rivers, where it uses a weak electric organ to sense its surroundings and locate prey. It feeds mainly on insects and insect larvae taken from the bottom. The electric discharges also play a role in territorial behaviour. The species is of local commercial fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mormyrids?
The Mormyrids has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Weak electric organ for orientation and territorial behaviour; characteristic snout-shaped mouth.
Where does the Mormyrids live?
The Mormyrids lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Rivers of West, Central and northeast Africa, including the Nile, Niger and Senegal.
How big does the Mormyrids get?
The Mormyrids grows to a maximum of about 100 cm.
Is the Mormyrids dangerous to humans?
No, the Mormyrids 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 Mormyrids edible?
Yes, the Mormyrids is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mormyrus
More from the family Mormyridae
Want the complete picture on the Mormyrids?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mormyrids is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone