Electric Eel

About

The electric eel (Electrophorus electricus) is one of the most biologically extraordinary fish on the planet, and not just because of its famous electrical output. Despite the common name, it is actually a knifefish belonging to the order Gymnotiformes, not a true eel. Wild specimens come from the slow-moving, murky waterways and swampy coastal plains of the Guiana Shield in South America, where they spend most of their time near the bottom. Up to 80% of the body length is dedicated to three specialized electric organs, leaving the vital organs packed into the front fifth of the fish. The two larger organs, the Main and Hunter's organs, produce the high-voltage discharges the species is famous for, over 600 volts in large individuals, used both to stun prey and defend against threats. A third organ, Sachs's organ, generates a weak, low-voltage field used for navigation and communication in the near-zero visibility of their murky habitat. The electric eel is also an obligate air breather, surfacing regularly to gulp air since its gills alone cannot meet its oxygen needs. This is strictly a species for experienced specialists with very large setups. It should be kept alone, tank maintenance requires rubber gloves and rubber-soled shoes, and these precautions are genuinely non-negotiable.