Electric catfish
📖 Overview
Electric catfish (Malapterurus occidentalis) is a ray-finned fish of the family Malapteruridae. It inhabits freshwater waters in benthic environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 32 cm. With a trophic level of 3.4, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 0; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 9 - 11; Vertebrae: 36 - 38. Diagnosis: tooth patches narrow; vertically based pectoral fin positioned near body mid-depth; 7-8 branched caudal-fin rays; eye relatively large; interorbital space relatively narrow; 8-9 pectoral-fin rays; 36-38 vertebrae; young tan or brown; caudal saddle and bar pattern present in juveniles but poorly developed in adults; flank and dorsum marked with small spots but no large blotches; caudal fin not heavily marked with spots or blotches . : fusiform / normal; Cross section: circular.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Electric catfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; demersal. Tropical
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
| Language | Common Names |
|---|---|
| 🇬🇧English | Electric catfish |
| 🇫🇷French | Silure électrique |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 1 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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