Elephant fish

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