Fin's Fish Guide
The African lungfish (Protopterus annectens) is a freshwater fish of the family Protopteridae that grows up to 100 cm.
Description
The West African lungfish (Protopterus annectens) is a remarkable freshwater fish of the family Protopteridae that has true lungs and must breathe air. The species has an elongate, eel-like, brownish body with thread-like paired fins and reaches about one metre. It inhabits swamps and quiet margins of rivers and lakes. During drought it burrows into the mud and survives for months in a cocoon of mucus, in a dormant state (aestivation). The diet is mainly carnivorous with mollusks, frogs and fishes, but also includes plant matter. With its powerful tooth plates it can bite hard. The species is eaten locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African lungfish?
The African lungfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Has true lungs and must breathe air; survives drought buried in a mucus cocoon (aestivation).
Where does the African lungfish live?
The African lungfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Swamps and rivers of West and Central Africa.
How big does the African lungfish get?
The African lungfish grows to a maximum of about 100 cm.
Is the African lungfish dangerous to humans?
No, the African lungfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the African lungfish edible?
The African lungfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Protopterus
More from the family Protopteridae
Want the complete picture on the African lungfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African lungfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.