<P> As in other ostariophysan fishes, the swim bladder has two chambers . The anterior chamber is connected to the inner ear by a series of small bones derived from neck vertebrae called the Weberian apparatus, which greatly enhances its hearing capability . The posterior chamber extends along the whole length of the body and maintains the fish's buoyancy . E. electricus has a well - developed sense of hearing . This fish has a vascularized respiratory system with gas exchange occurring through epithelial tissue in its buccal cavity . As obligate air - breathers, electric eels must rise to the surface every ten minutes or so to inhale before returning to the bottom . Nearly eighty percent of the oxygen used by the fish is obtained in this way . </P> <P> Despite its name, the electric eel is not closely related to the true eels (Anguilliformes), but is a member of the neotropical knifefish order (Gymnotiformes), which is more closely related to the catfish . </P> <P> The electric eel has three pairs of abdominal organs that produce electricity: the main organ, the Hunter's organ, and the Sach's organ . These organs make up four - fifths of its body, and give the electric eel the ability to generate two types of electric organ discharges: low voltage and high voltage . These organs are made of electrocytes, lined up so a current of ions can flow through them and stacked so each one adds to a potential difference . </P> <P> When the eel finds its prey, the brain sends a signal through the nervous system to the electrocytes . This opens the ion channels, allowing sodium to flow through, reversing the polarity momentarily . By causing a sudden difference in electric potential, it generates an electric current in a manner similar to a battery, in which stacked plates each produce an electric potential difference . </P>

Where does the electric eel get its electricity