West African Mudfish
NameWest African Mudfish
Scientific NameIsichthys henryi
Common NamesWest African Mudfish, Henry's Mudfish, Mudfish
FamilyIsichthyidae
OriginWest Africa, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Togo, Benin, Nigeria
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)100
Max Size (Inches)13.8
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge African cichlids, Large Synodontis catfish, Other similarly sized, robust fish
Description
The West African Mudfish (Isichthys henryi) is an elongated, eel-like freshwater fish native to various West African countries. Known for its ability to breathe atmospheric air and burrow in mud, it thrives in diverse aquatic environments. This nocturnal carnivore preys on insects, crustaceans, and small fish.
