The elongated snout and pointed teeth of the tomistoma are an adaptation to a predominantly piscivorous diet. Although the largest individuals capture small mammals, fish constitute the basis of their diet. It prefers slow-flowing rivers or swamps to hide among floating vegetation. Sometimes they also hide in caves. They submerge themselves in the water, leaving only their eyes and nostrils visible. Although they usually submerge between 10 and 15 minutes, in risky situations, they can be submerged for up to 2 hours. Females reach sexual maturity when they reach a length of approximately 2,5 meters. They build their nests in mounds of sand and leaves, and lay 20 to 30 eggs. Once deposited, the female abandons them to her fate.