Author: (Linnaeus, 1758)
FBname: Cornish jack
Comments: Juveniles occur in marginal habitats, adults prefer deep quiet water between boulders and below overhangs, away from strong currents; also occurs beneath <i>Salvinia</i> mats and in river estuaries in Lake Kariba; juveniles prey on invertebrates, mainly shrimps and insect larvae (Ref. 7248, 52193). Adults/larger individuals are piscivorous (Ref. 28714), feeding on small cichlids, minnows and labeos (Ref. Ref. 7248, 52193). May live for 8 years or more; breeds in summer during the rainy season; mature females carry 25000 or more eggs (Ref. 7248, 52193). A fractional spawner (Ref. 10606, 10605). Affinities:  <i>M. breviceps</i>.