Fin's Fish Guide
The Tanganyika spiny eel (Mastacembelus tanganicae) is a freshwater fish of the family Mastacembelidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; shallow rocky coastal waters.
Description
The Tanganyika spiny eel is a spiny eel of the family Mastacembelidae endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 19 cm and has an elongate, eel-like body with a pointed, fleshy snout. It inhabits shallow coastal waters with a rocky bottom, where it shelters among stones. As a nocturnal bottom hunter it searches for insect larvae, worms and small invertebrates. Along the back, before the dorsal fin, is a row of separate, sharp spines that can give puncture wounds; therefore handle the fish with care. The species is safe to eat.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tanganyika spiny eel?
The Tanganyika spiny eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Eel-like body with a pointed snout and a row of separate, sharp dorsal spines.
Where does the Tanganyika spiny eel live?
The Tanganyika spiny eel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; shallow rocky coastal waters.
How big does the Tanganyika spiny eel get?
The Tanganyika spiny eel grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Tanganyika spiny eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Tanganyika spiny eel is harmless to humans. The stout, sharp fin spines can cause painful puncture or cut wounds; handle the fish with care. Clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or infection increases.
Is the Tanganyika spiny eel edible?
The Tanganyika spiny eel 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 Tanganyika spiny eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tanganyika spiny eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.