Fin's Fish Guide
The Taia spiny eel (Mastacembelus taiaensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Mastacembelidae that grows up to 29 cm.
Description
The Taia spiny eel is a spiny eel (Mastacembelidae) from fresh water of rivers of West Africa. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a very elongate, eel-like, brown body with a pointed, movable snout and a row of short, separate spines along the back before the soft dorsal fin. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it burrows by day in sand and leaf litter and hunts worms, insect larvae and small invertebrates by night. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Taia spiny eel?
The Taia spiny eel has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Taia spiny eel live?
The Taia spiny eel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Guinea, Sierra Leone
How big does the Taia spiny eel get?
The Taia spiny eel grows to a maximum of about 29 cm.
Is the Taia spiny eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Taia 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 Taia spiny eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Taia spiny eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.