Common Name: Freshwater Dolphin Fish
Scientific Name: Mormyrus cf. longirostris
Habitat and Distribution:
The Freshwater Dolphin Fish is a species of elephantfish native to freshwater habitats in West Africa. They are commonly found in rivers and tributaries with slow-moving water and sandy or muddy bottoms.
Size and Lifespan:
The Freshwater Dolphin Fish can grow up to 20 inches in length and has an average lifespan of 10-15 years.
Diet and Behavior:
Freshwater Dolphin Fish are carnivorous and primarily feed on small fish and invertebrates. They have a long snout that is used for detecting prey in the sand and mud at the bottom of the river.
In the aquarium, they should be fed a varied diet of frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small pieces of fish. They are generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish, but may eat smaller fish.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
The Freshwater Dolphin Fish requires a spacious aquarium of at least 75 gallons. They are sensitive to poor water conditions, so a good filtration system is required to maintain high water quality. They prefer a sand substrate and some driftwood or rocks for hiding places.
The ideal water temperature range for this species is 72-82°F with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. They require a moderate water flow and a partially open top to allow for gas exchange.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Freshwater Dolphin Fish can be kept with other non-aggressive fish that are of similar size, but it's best to avoid keeping them with smaller fish that they may consider prey.
Difficulty Level:
The Freshwater Dolphin Fish is considered to be moderately difficult to keep and requires a well-maintained aquarium with stable water parameters.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72-82°F
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- General Hardness (GH): 5-12 dGH
- Carbonate Hardness (KH): 2-10 dKH
- Ammonia: 0 ppm
- Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: < 20 ppm
Additional Information:
- The Freshwater Dolphin Fish is named for its long snout, which resembles the beak of a dolphin.
- This species is sometimes referred to as the African Freshwater Dolphin.
- In the wild, Freshwater Dolphin Fish are known to use electrical impulses to communicate with each other and locate prey.
