The electric eel (Electrophorus electricus) is a member
of the order Gymnotiformes and the genus Electrophus. Known for its ability to
actually electrocute other creatures, the electric eel is a unique member of
the animal kingdom and the only species in its genus. The electric eel is
actually a fish.
The electric eel reaches six feet in length and weighs as
much as 45 pounds. They have long cylindrical snake like bodies which are
usually a mixture of browns and grays and orange and yellows. Despite being a
fish, the electric eel has no scales on its body and is comprised of a long
continuous fin. Electric eels need oxygen to breathe and come up for air every
ten minutes.
Using three separate organs that comprise ¾ of its body, the
electric eel has the ability to generate both low and high voltage electricity.
The eel creates the electricity as both a self defense response and to aid in
hunting prey.
Native to South America, electric
eels live in freshwater and eat fish and small animals. New born eels can
actually eat the eggs of their unborn siblings.