Worm-jawed Mormyrid; Blunt-Jaw Elephantnose Gnathonemus tamandua | PicturesSynonyms: Campylomormyrus
tamandua, Gnathonemus elephas, Mormyrus tamandua Physical description: An elongated, laterally compressed species.
The Blunt-Jaw Elephantnose's mouth is
located near the end of its large proboscis.
The lower part of the proboscis protrudes past the mouth.
The
dorsal and ventral profiles are symmetric with the anal and dorsal fins being located across from one another.
The
caudal fin is forked.
The coloration is brown-gray with several brownish-white markings.
Size/Length: To 16" (40 cm)
Similar species: Other Gnathonemus
and Campylomormyrus
species.
Habitat: In murky water with submerged wood in Western Africa
;
Niger and Zaire.
S: bottom
Aquarium: A tank measuring 48" (122 cm) with a capacity from 55 gallons (209 L) is sufficient
for fish to 10" (25 cm) in length.
Larger fish require larger tanks.
Use dim lighting and provide hiding
places with pipes, tubes, caves, and wood.
The tank should be well-planted with large, robust plants and have
a cover of floating plants.
Use a filter that provides a strong current.
Use a fine gravel or sand substrate,
for this fish burrows.
The Worm-jawed Mormyrid prefers large, shallow tank having peat filtration.
Water chemistry: pH 6.0-7.5 (6.8); 5-20 dH (6); 73-82°F (23-28°C)
Social behavior: A species that is territorial and aggressive towards similar species although peaceful
towards different large species.
Do not combine with small species.
Suggested companions: Haplochromis,
Synodontis, Cichlasoma, Tilapia, Pimelodids, Doradids, Loricarids,
African characins.
FOOD: Live; Tubifex
, small fish, worms, insect larvae Sexual differences: The rear edge of the anal fin of males is curved, while the edge of females is straight.
Breeding techniques: Unknown
Breeding potential: 10.
This species has not been bred in captivity.
REMARKS: This species requires frequent partial water changes.
Difficulty of care: 7.
The Worm-jawed Mormyrid is a fairly difficult species to care for.
It requires live foods and is aggressive.
It
is sensitive to medications and unfavorable water conditions.
