Dolphin Fish
Dolphin fish look like dolphins but belong to the mormyrid family that also includes baby whales and elephant nose. These fish go well with an African theme aquarium and they are hardy and a bit aggressive. It is usually best to have live feeders on hand as these fish come wild from Nigeria and sometimes need to be transitioned to prepared foods. Like other mormyrids, the dolphin fish prefers a hiding place. When adapted to the aquarium, it is a bit unsettling when one approaches the glass like Flipper asking for a treat.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Mormyrus longirostris |
|---|---|
| Origin | Central and East Africa |
| Care Level | Moderate |
FAQ
What kind of environment does the dolphin fish prefer?
The dolphin fish prefers a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots, as it is naturally shy and likes to hide among structures.
Do dolphin fish require live food?
It is recommended to have live feeders available initially, as dolphin fish come from the wild and may need time to adjust to prepared foods.
Is the dolphin fish aggressive?
Yes, the dolphin fish is described as a bit aggressive, especially in smaller tanks or when space is limited.
Richard Cornish –
The dolphin fish is a striking addition to my African-themed tank. It’s active and curious, often swimming near the glass as if it’s asking for food. I had to provide live feeders at first, but after a week it started accepting prepared food. It does get aggressive with other fish, so I keep it in a larger tank with plenty of hiding spots.
Evan Sutherland –
This fish is a real eye-catcher. It moves smoothly and has a unique appearance. After a few weeks, it adapted well to my tank and started using the caves as shelter. I noticed it becomes more active when I approach the glass, which is both fascinating and slightly unnerving.
Elizabeth Newman –
I bought this fish for my African tank, and it fits well visually. However, it’s quite aggressive and chased a smaller fish I had. I now keep it in a larger tank with more cover. It took about two weeks to adjust to dry food.