The Mormyrus longirostris, commonly known as the Longsnout Elephantnose Fish, is an intriguing freshwater species found in African rivers. Recognized for its elongated snout and unique electrical sensing abilities, this fish is a captivating choice for advanced aquarium enthusiasts. Let's explore the key features and care requirements of the Mormyrus longirostris:

Appearance:

• The Longsnout Elephantnose Fish has an elongated, tubular snout, giving it a distinct appearance resembling an elephant's trunk.
• The body is typically brown or gray with a silverish sheen, and it has a long anal fin that runs along the underside of its body.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: Maintain a tropical environment between 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C).
• pH Levels: Aim for slightly acidic to neutral water conditions, ideally between 6.0 to 7.5.
• Water Hardness: Keep water hardness in the soft to medium range, around 5 to 15 dGH.

Tank Size and Setup:

• Due to its size and specialized needs, the Longsnout Elephantnose Fish requires a larger aquarium of at least 75 gallons.
• Provide ample hiding spots with caves, plants, and driftwood. Subdued lighting helps create a more comfortable environment.

Tank Mates:

• Longsnout Elephantnose Fish can be kept with other peaceful and non-aggressive species.
• Avoid housing them with aggressive or overly territorial fish, as their unique anatomy makes them vulnerable to harassment.

Feeding Habits:

• Mormyrus longirostris primarily feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae, and other live or frozen foods.
• Offer a varied diet that includes high-quality pellets, flakes, and supplement with live or frozen options like bloodworms and brine shrimp.

Care and Maintenance:

• Regular water changes are crucial to maintain water quality, and consistent monitoring of parameters with reliable test kits is recommended.
• Use a strong and efficient filtration system to keep the water clean, as these fish are sensitive to deteriorating water conditions.

Electroreception:

• Mormyrus longirostris possesses specialized electroreceptors in its elongated snout, allowing it to navigate and detect prey through weak electrical fields in the water.

Behavior and Sensory Perception:

• Longsnout Elephantnose Fish are nocturnal and have poor eyesight. They rely heavily on their electroreception abilities to navigate and locate food in low-light conditions.

Caution and Expertise:

• Keeping Mormyrus longirostris requires a level of expertise due to their unique sensory adaptations and specific care needs.
• Approach their care with caution, and ensure that the aquarium environment mimics their natural habitat as closely as possible.