Polydactylus quadrifilis ( Giant African threadfin)

(Source: Fishbase, 2014)

Scientific Name: Polydactylus quadrifilis

Common Name:  Giant African threadfin

Genus: Polydactylus

Species: quadrifilis

Ijaw Name: Inda

Family: Polynemidae

Habitat: Rivers

Gear Type: Fishig Nets

Season of Occurrence: Dry season

Description: The Giant African Threadfin, is a large and unique fish native to the eastern Atlantic Ocean, ranging from Senegal to Angola, including sightings in Mauritania. Known for its distinctive appearance, it can reach up to 200 cm in length and weigh up to 75 kg. Its body is elongated with a silver coloration that fades from greyish-brown to white ventrally. It has a prominent pectoral fin with four filamentous rays, a feature that aids in sensing the environment, particularly over sandy and muddy seabeds where it resides. The Giant African Threadfin is primarily found in shallow coastal waters and can occasionally enter brackish and even freshwater areas, although very large individuals are typically marine-bound. Its diet mainly consists of crustaceans and smaller fish. Classified as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List, it is considered harmless to humans and is prized for its tasty flesh, making it a popular catch in local fisheries. For more detailed information on the Giant African Threadfin’s biology, ecology, and conservation status, you can explore sources such as FishBase and the IUCN Red List.