Electric eel , any of three species of elongated South American knifefishes that produce powerful electric shocks to stun prey. Electric eels have three electric organs—the main organ, Hunter’s organ, and Sach’s organ—which are made up of modified muscle cells. Learn how electric eels produce and use electricity for hunting, communication, and self-defense in the Amazon and Orinoco rivers. Discover their anatomy, mechanism, ecological impact, and scientific inspiration. The electric eel is a misunderstood and misnamed creature. Learn some surprising facts about the animal, including whether it can shock itself. Learn about the electric eel , a freshwater fish that can produce strong electric pulses for hunting, defense, communication, and navigation. Find out its scientific name, classification, anatomy, physiology, and behaviour in this comprehensive article.