Britannica Sources used in this answer

How does Gymnarchus niloticus build and protect its floating nest?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Gymnarchus niloticus constructs its nest by biting off the stems of swamp grasses and weaving them into a large, trough-shaped floating structure that measures approximately 50 cm (20 inches) in length.1

Once spawning occurs within this nest, one or both parents provide protection by guarding the developing young for a period of about 18 days.1