Elephant fish
Callorhinchus capensis
Fun Fact: So called because of a downward projecting trunk-like lobe.
Introduction: Elephant fish (Callorhinchus capensis) have a steep forehead, long, pointed tail and a downward projecting trunk-like lobe. Fairly common bottom-dwelling species found mainly in shallow water. Also known as ratfish or the plownose chimaera. Callorhinchus means 'hard-skinned snout'. Capensis is 'of the Cape'.
Distribution: From the Orange River to Walvis Bay
Diet: Brittlestars, shrimps, crabs, molluscs and several species of slow-moving fish
Colouration: Overall body colour silver
Breeding: Takes place during the summer months. Females deposit two, pointed, brown egg cases on the sea-bed
Max size: 100cm. Max weight: 6kg
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