Fin's Fish Guide
The Tanganyika spiny eel (Mastacembelus ellipsifer) is a freshwater fish of the family Mastacembelidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
The Tanganyika spiny eel is an eel-shaped freshwater fish of the spiny eel family (Mastacembelidae), endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 45 cm and has a strongly elongate, snake-like body with a pointed, trunk-like snout. In front of the soft dorsal fin stands a row of separate spinelets. It inhabits shoreline zones with sandy, rocky or muddy bottoms, where it lies concealed by day and hunts worms, insect larvae and other small invertebrates on the bottom at night. The species is of limited fishery importance. It is harmless to humans.
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 spots pattern. Snake-like body with a trunk-like snout and a row of separate small dorsal spines.
Where does the Tanganyika spiny eel live?
The Tanganyika spiny eel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.
How big does the Tanganyika spiny eel get?
The Tanganyika spiny eel grows to a maximum of about 45 cm.
Is the Tanganyika spiny eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Tanganyika 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.
Is the Tanganyika spiny eel edible?
The Tanganyika spiny eel is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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.