Fish
The Nile River, one of the longest rivers in the world, winds its way through 10 countries in northern Africa. Spanning over 6,700 km and linking to two gigantic lakes, it is the life-sustaining artery of two-thirds of the African population. Water, however, is not the only thing that flows through the timeless river. The waters of the Nile are teeming with thousands of fish species.
Egypt is known for its world-famous catfishes, known as muroids due to their unique head plates and elongated bodies. These bottom-dwellers inhabit all major parts of the river and lake, and feed on a variety of organisms. Their mighty predatory nature allows them to hunt much bigger fish. Nile perch and Nile tilapia are some of the larger predatory species that feed on smaller fish.
Egypt’s ancient ‘cleoparas’ and modern farming practices have also reshaped the fish populations of the Nile. In recent years, the introduction of larger and more aggressive fish has led to the displacement of smaller species such as carp. In the Upper Nile, exotic species are also increasingly seen; these include species from other African countries or from overseas.
In addition to the common fish species, the Nile is home to some very unique and rarely seen species. Known as the ‘river monsters’, these rare, ancient fish include the endangered sarotherodon, the blunt-snouted goliath, the astonishingly long-lived man-like catfish, and the gargantuan goonch.
Due to their low visibility, little is known about them, but their reported sizes and feeding habits hint at something truly extraordinary. To protect and conserve such a wide variety of beautiful fish, Egypt has enforced a strict fishing policy, claiming to be one of the most regulated river systems in the world.
Reptiles
Home to some of the world’s most astonishing landscapes, the Nile River is also a sanctuary for many species of reptiles. The most common and easily seen reptiles on the Nile include six venomous snakes and four species of lizards.
The Nile monitor, an elegant lizard with a long tail, is one of the most popular species in the area. Easily recognizable due to its slender build, it feeds on small insects, fish, and amphibians. They have even been reported to hunt gazelles, making them a formidable hunter.
In contrast to the Nile monitor, the most feared reptiles on the Nile are its venomous snakes. The most common is the cobra, which is not only highly poisonous but can grow up to three meters in length. They are known to be fast and agile hunters that prey on rodents and amphibians. As a result, humans are advised to keep their distance this species.
For those looking for something a little less intimidating, the bush vipers are a beautiful species of reptile native to the river. They are known for their bright colors, ranging from pink to yellow. Although they are not as venomous as cobras, they can still pack a painful bite.
Birds
Many bird species flock to the Nile to spend their summers and winters there.
The African fish eagle is one of the most easily recognizable birds in the area. It is a large, powerful bird capable of snatching large prey such as fish from the river. Due to its size and strength, it can also take down small mammals or reptiles.
Cormorants and storks too inhabit the Nile. Although not as big or strong as the African fish eagle, these birds use their sharp eyesight to catch prey. Cormorants forage for fish and snakes, while storks typically go for frogs and insects.
Along the banks of the river, one is also likely to find the sacred ibis. A fascinating species due to its spiritual significance in Ancient Egypt, the species is known for its elegant shape and delicate feathers.
Mammals
The murky waters of the Nile provide a perfect habitat for many warm-blooded animals.
The most common are the two species of otters that can be seen playing in banks. Both species live in large family groups and spend their time hunting for fish, crabs, and other invertebrates.
Also common near the Nile is the Nile hippopotamus. This enormous and docile mammal is vital to the river’s ecosystem and can reach weights of up to four tons. While they may appear harmless, they can become aggressive when provoked and will use their huge size to their advantage.
The robust and powerful Nile crocodile, with its moss-colored skin and sharp teeth, is also an impressive sight in the river. These formidable reptiles can reach up to seven meters in length and are known to prey on large mammals such as antelopes.
Amphibians
The banks of the Nile are also home to many amphibians.
The most notable species is the Egyptian marsh frog, an ancient species that has been living in the area for thousands of years. With a large head and round eyes, these nocturnal frogs diet of small invertebrates and are very abundant in the area.
Other species of frogs and salamanders inhabit the river and its tributaries, providing an essential food source to the many predators who call the river home.
Invertebrates
The life of the Nile River would not be complete without its vast array of invertebrates.
Shrimps, crabs and other crustaceans, as well as mussels and clams, provide a food source for the many predators in the river.
The largest and most impressive invertebrates that have adapted to the Nile are the giant snails. This species can be seen crawling along the banks of the river and feeds mostly on algae on the bottom.
Plants
The wetlands of the Nile are also home to many species of aquatic plants.
Some of the most common aquatic plants include the yellow water-lily, the lotus, and the papyrus. These plants provide pools of shelter and food for fish and many bird species.
The plant life of the river is essential to maintain the water’s quality and sustain the species living in the area. They also provide food for humans, as well as for the many species of fish and birds.
