Mormyrid – Long-nosed Elephant Fish

Description

Long-nosed Elephant Fish or Elephant Nose

Gnathonemus petersii
Water Temp: 73-80° F
KH 0-10
pH 6.5-7.0
Max. Size: about 9″
Native to: Africa

The Elephant Nose is a very interesting and odd looking fish that originates from the Niger River in West Africa. Its body is mostly black and is irregularly shaped with a long narrow tail and what looks to be its nose however this is actually an extension of it’s mouth. The Elephant nose uses its trunk-like extension to forage for food, communicate, and move through the water as well as self defense. It possesses a weak electrical organ at the caudal peduncles which is used to locate food.

Elephant nose are generally timid and shy preferring a tank loaded up with plenty of live plants and rocks for hiding places where it can find refuge from light.

The Elephant Nose can become incredibly tame & trusting to being hand-held and it does well with other larger species of similar peaceful nature, but could be aggressive towards those of smaller size.

The Elephant Nose is a carnivore and will eat bloodworms, brine shrimp, flakes and pellet foods. Shipped about 2″ to 5″+ depending on time of year.