The online naming contest received more than 1,500 submissions. In addition to Wattson (an homage to 19^th century electrical designer Thomas A. Watson, famous for assisting Alexander Graham Bell), participants suggested Tra-volt-a and Sparky.

“We want to thank everyone who participated in our eel-naming contest. We received so many creative suggestions, it was a challenge to choose a winner,” said Jon Forrest Dohlin, WCS Vice President and Director of the New York Aquarium. “It was amazing to see how many New Yorkers wanted to help us decide what to call this electrifying sea creature.”

Aquarium visitors can see Wattson at Explore the Shore.
 
Electric eels are native to streams and lakes of South America. They generate electricity to aid them with navigation and survival. The fish uses low-intensity electrical impulses to navigate murky waters. It generates pulses of more than 650 volts—five times the voltage of a standard wall socket—to disable its prey.