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Malapteruridae

A Dictionary of Zoology | 1999 | 589 words | Copyright

Malapteruridae (electric catfish; subclass Actinopterygii, order Siluriformes) A monospecific family (Malapterurus electricus) of fish found in freshwater basins of tropical Africa: there may be a second species in the Congo basin. The massive, stubby body shows an adipose but no dorsal fin. Both adipose and anal fins are located close to the rounded tail fin. The eyes and spineless pectoral and pelvic fins are small. A large electric catfish can deliver shocks strong enough to stun or kill prey fish. Its electric organs are located under the skin along the whole length of the body.

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MICHAEL ALLABY. "Malapteruridae." A Dictionary of Zoology. 1999. Encyclopedia.com. 30 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

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