Benin Electric Catfish

Malapterurus beninensis is one of several species described within the Malapteruridae following modern taxonomic revisions, restricted to coastal river systems of Benin and Nigeria in West Africa. It is considerably smaller than M. electricus, reaching around 30 cm, which makes it marginally more practical for large-format home aquaria while retaining the fully functional electroplax organ of its relatives.

Captive care mirrors that of M. electricus — strictly solitary housing, meaty diet, clean water, and caution during maintenance are all mandatory. Despite the smaller size, its electric discharge is still significant and handling without gloves is inadvisable. It is a rare fish in the trade, appearing sporadically in West African import shipments.

For collectors interested in the malapterurid family, M. beninensis represents an excellent opportunity to observe electrogenic behaviour at a somewhat smaller scale. Its biology, sensory capabilities, and evolutionary history make it as scientifically interesting as any fish in the hobby.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, moderate hardness; clean conditions; sensitive to ammonia spikes. Tank: 300 L minimum; kept strictly alone; smooth plastic furnishings; heavy lid. Feeding: Earthworms, small live or dead fish, frozen prawns; high-protein diet. Breeding: Not documented in captivity for this species. Compatibility: Must be housed solo — electrogenic and will injure or kill tankmates.