Where do electric eels live?

Electric eels live in the slow-moving streams and ponds of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in the northern and middle parts of South America. They are related to carp and prefer swimming in the murky bottom waters of shallow ponds.

Electric eels are not true eels. They breathe air and frequently come to the surface to breathe. An adult electric eel grows to around eight feet and weighs close to 44 pounds. An eel releases an electrical charge to capture prey, such as fish, birds, amphibians and small mammals, and to warn or disable predators. The charge of a fully grown electric eel is approximately 600 volts.