Hepsetus odoe

The Hepsetus odoe, also known as the African pike or Kafue pike, is a predatory fish belonging to the Family Hepsetidae.

Anatomy and Morphology

It is an elongate fish with a pike-like body. This species can reach up to about 65 cm SL.

Distribution

The Kafue pike inhabits tropical, freshwater lakes, coastal rivers, and swamps in Africa. It is widespread throughout central and west Africa, but is absent from the Nile river.

Ecology and Life History

Habitat

The species prefers quiet and deep water.

Life History

This fish is relatively short-lived and may only live about five years.

Spawning occurs in the summer months. It is oviparous, and the eggs are laid in a nest of floating foam, which will be guarded. Fry and juveniles will inhabit well-vegetated marginal habitats.

Importance to humans

The Kafue pike is a gamefish. It also, on occasion, found as an aquarium fish, though its large size and piscivorous nature make it unsuitable for most aquarists.

Bibliography

• Nelson, Joseph S. (2006). Fishes of the World. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. ISBN 0471250317

References