Nonnative: Electric Eel

Electric Eel - Electrophorus electrticus

 Description: Not a true eel; it is a member of the family of naked knifefishes, that is nearly scaleless, has no dorsal fin and a very long anal fin that is contiguous with the caudal fin.  Color is brownish gray with an orange patch under the chin.  Pores used for electro-sensing prey are obvious on the face.

Species: Only one species.

Range: South America, particularly the Amazon and Orinoco river systems.

Habitat: Primarily slow moving water bodies, is an obligate air breather so can survive anoxic (no oxygen) conditions but must reach the surface to breathe.

Spawning Habitats: Egg layer, fry are reputed to cannibalize their siblings eggs.

Feeding Habits: Uses the battery-like electric organs in the posterior portion of the body to generate up to 600 volts.  Although a single fish is not normally lethal to an adult human, drowning can result, and several eels may attack the same prey.  Primarily nocturnal they also use their electricity generating abilities to locate prey.

Age and Growth: To eight feet or more and about 45 pounds.

Potential Concerns: Could potentially become established and create both environmental and human health concerns.  All members of the family Electrophoridae are prohibited.

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