Gymnarchus niloticus (Frankfish, Aba)

(Source: Fishbase, 2019)

Scientific Name: Gymnarchus niloticus

Common Name: Frankfish, Aba

Genus: Gymnarchus

Species: niloticus

Ijaw Name: Aba

Family: Gymnarchidae

Habitat: Lakes

Gear Type: Fishing Nets

Season of Occurrence: Dry/Raining season

Description: The Frankfish or aba, is a large, elongated fish with a unique knife-like body shape and a continuous dorsal fin running along its back. Typically growing up to 1.5 meters, it is found in the slow-moving waters of the Nile and other African rivers and lakes. This fish is a powerful nocturnal predator, using electrical impulses to navigate and locate prey in murky waters. G. niloticus is solitary and highly territorial, thriving in habitats with dense vegetation, which offers shelter and hunting grounds. It feeds on smaller fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates.