Species guide
How to catch African bonytongue
Heterotis niloticus
freshwaterArapaimidae
The African bonytongue is a freshwater fish known for its distinctive bony tongue and fusiform body. It mainly feeds by sifting through mud and plant debris in its habitat. This species is commonly found in African swamps and vegetated waters but is not considered a game fish.
Where they live
Found in African freshwater swamps, open waters, and areas with fringing vegetation, typically in shallow depths around 1 meter.
Typical size
Up to about 100 cm
What they eat
- mud
- phytoplankton
- vegetable debris
- small invertebrates
- organic debris
- seeds
- aquatic plants
Best baits
- vegetable scraps
- earthworms
- small aquatic invertebrates
Best lures
- soft plastic bottom rigs
- small jigs
How to fish for them
- bottom fishing
- bait fishing
- light tackle angling
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