Large freshwater fish (Electrophorus electricus) found in shallow streams of the Orinoco and Amazon basins of South America; body cylindrical at front, becoming compressed posteriorly, length up to 2·4 m/8 ft; long anal fin; dorsal, tail, and pelvic fins absent; produces powerful electric shocks to stun prey, as defence, and for navigation in turbid waters. (Family: Electrophoridae.)
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Electrophorus electricus Linnaeus, 1766 |
The electric eel, Electrophorus electricus, is a species of fish.
The electric eel may be found in the basins of both the Amazon River and Orinoco River, as well as the surrounding areas.
The Sachs organ, a stack of electroplaques, is the primary source of communication among E.
The electric eel generates its characteristic electrical pulse in a manner similar to a battery, in which stacked plates produce an electrical charge.
Similar species are the electric catfish (Malapterurus electricus) and the electric ray (Torpedo mamorata, T.
Although the eels are common in their range and popular draws for public aquaria, the eel's habit of delivering shocks, even when gently handled, means that they are too dangerous for most amateurs to try to keep at home.
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