NGC 2865 is an isolated[4] elliptical galaxy in the equatorial constellation of Hydra.

[6][7][3] The core region of the galaxy shows a kinematically distinct component showing indications of a recent accretion or merger event that led to a burst of star formation around the nucleus.

Observational constraints require this to have occurred within the last 100–400 million years, with the merger most likely being an Sb or Sc-class spiral galaxy.

[5] NGC 2865 displays chaotic shell features that are likely the result of an interaction.

Seven HII regions have been identified in the tidal tails, with associated populations of young stars.