The Fish That Packs a 600-Volt Punch.Explore the biology of electric eels and learn how these incredible fish produce electricity to hunt and navigate
Electric eels can generate electric shocks up to 600 volts, enough to stun prey or deter predators.
Despite their name, electric eels are more closely related to catfish than to true eels.
They have three specialized organs – the Main organ, Hunter's organ, and Sach's organ – dedicated to producing electricity.
Electric eels are obligate air-breathers, coming up for a gulp of air every few minutes despite living in water.
They use electricity for both hunting and navigation, sensing their surroundings in murky waters.
Growing up to 8 feet in length and weighing around 44 pounds, they're among the largest electric fish.
They can emit low-voltage pulses for navigation and high-voltage shocks to incapacitate prey.
Related to other electric fish like electric rays and knife fish, sharing the ability to generate electric fields.
Their bodies work like a biological battery, with cells called electrocytes arranged in series to create high-voltage discharges.
Despite their dangerous shocks, electric eels are popular attractions in public aquariums, fascinating visitors with their electrifying abilities.