Bony fish
Gray Bichir
Polypterus senegalus
Also known as: African Birchir, Albino Birchir, Cuvier's Bichir, Dinosaur Birchir, Dinosaur Eel, Dragonfish, Nessy, Reedfish, Ropefish, Sailfin, Senegal Bichir
ALSO KNOWN AS
- African Birchir
- Albino Birchir
- Cuvier's Bichir
- Dinosaur Birchir
- Dinosaur Eel
- Dragonfish
- Nessy
- Reedfish
- Ropefish
- Sailfin
- Senegal Bichir
LCLeast ConcernIUCN Red List, 2020
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Overview
Found over slow moving waters, along muddy sides of freshwater lagoons, rivers and swamps. On hot days it can be found on the surface of the water close to vegetation, dropping back to the bottom when alarmed.
Widespread Africa
Birchirs possess a pair of lungs and are air breathing can often be found walking along the bottoms using their Pectoral fins and tail.
Very popular in the aquarium trade.
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How to identify
Tap any trait to see other fish that share it.
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Habitat & where to find it
- Exact location · 1
LIVES IN
Found over slow moving waters, along muddy sides of freshwater lagoons, rivers and swamps.
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Adult photos 1
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Discussion 2
2 comments
ALL STAGES
FOR THE MARINE-BIOLOGY CURIOUS
Deep dive
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More in the family
Bichirs (Polypteridae)
