Mormyrops anguilloides, also known as the Cornish Jack or the African electric fish, is a species of freshwater fish found in various parts of Africa. It belongs to the Mormyridae family, which is known for the presence of weak electric organ discharges (EODs) used for navigation, communication, and prey detection in murky waters.
Key Features:
1. Size: Cornish Jack can grow quite large, reaching up to about 1 meter (39 inches) in length and weighing around 6 kg (13 lbs).
2. Appearance: It has a long, eel-like body with a pointed head, a dorsal fin located towards the rear, and a silvery to dark brownish body color.
3. Electric Organ: Like other members of the Mormyridae family, Mormyrops anguilloides produces weak electric pulses to help it detect prey and navigate its environment, especially in low-visibility waters.
4. Habitat: It inhabits slow-moving rivers, lakes, and swampy areas throughout central and western Africa, particularly in the Congo, Nile, and Zambezi river basins.
5. Diet: This species is carnivorous, feeding primarily on fish, but it may also consume invertebrates.
6. Behavior: It is a nocturnal species, often hunting for prey during the night using its electrosensory system.
7. Reproduction: Like many fish in its family, it is believed to have seasonal breeding patterns, coinciding with the rainy season when the rivers and floodplains swell.
Aquarium Care:
Though this fish is fascinating, it is not commonly kept in aquariums due to its size and specific environmental needs. It would require a very large tank and plenty of hiding spaces, along with good water filtration and consistent water quality. It thrives in soft, slightly acidic to neutral water, mimicking the conditions of African rivers.
Because of its nocturnal habits and electrosensory capabilities, the Cornish Jack is a unique species to study but more suited to specialized, large public aquariums than to home setups.
