Malapteruridae

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Malapterurus electricus, Electric Catfish. Aaron Norman

[edit] Overview

This is the only group of fishes with an electrogenic organ that enables them to generate a powerful electrical charge to shock and stun prey and attackers.

The discharge has been measured at up to 350 volts, but is not known to be fatal to humans.

BioGroup:

Native range:

Taxonomic rank: Family

Common name: ELECTRIC CATFISHES


Total known Total profiles
Subfamilies 0 0
Genera 1 1
Species 2 1


Captive care: Members of this family grow to 1 meter (39 in.) in length and can pose a danger to inexperienced aquarists.

[edit] Subfamilies

none

[edit] Genera

[edit] Species


Facts about MalapteruridaeRDF feed
Biogroup-Organism Freshwater Fishes  +
Common name ELECTRIC CATFISHES  +
Family taxonomic rank Family  +
Native range Africa  +, and Nile River  +
Reference 101 Best Tropical Fishes  +