Facts about Electric Catfish
Electric Catfish or Malapterurus electricus is found in Western and central tropical Africa and the Nile River. They live in rocks or roots in dark freshwater lakes and rivers. As its common name suggests, the Electric Catfish has the ability to shock and stun its enemies. The electric organ of the fish is present on the whole body, giving the fish the ability to efficiently shock its prey or larger predators. Each charge weakens the electric ability of the fish until it has adequate time to rest and "recharge". In ancient Egypt physicians used the electric catfish that inhabit the Nile River to shock their patients into good health. Electric Catfish are not endangered at the moment, but the continued destruction of its habitat could eventually threaten the species. The electric catfish is carnivorous and will eat almost anything meaty and up to half its size. The electric catfish can be as long as 39 inches. The lips of the electric catfish are thick, eyes are small, and nostrils are spread far apart. Males are thinner than the females. The Electric Catfish or Malapterurus electricus is a nocturnal (night) animal. Its most active hours are just after sunset. |
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