Fin's Fish Guide
The Bichir (Polypterus senegalus) is a freshwater fish of the family Polypteridae that grows up to 70 cm.
Description
The gray bichir (Polypterus senegalus) is an ancient African freshwater fish of the family Polypteridae, sometimes called the 'dinosaur eel'. The species has an elongate, grey-green body covered with hard, shiny ganoid scales and bears a conspicuous row of separate finlets on the back. It reaches about 70 cm and has a pair of functional lungs, with which it breathes air and survives oxygen-poor water. It inhabits swamps, lagoons and the muddy margins of rivers, where it lies quietly or glides about snake-like. As a nocturnal ambush predator it hunts fishes, insects and other invertebrates. The species is popular in the aquarium.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bichir?
The Bichir has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Hard ganoid scales, a row of separate dorsal finlets and functional lungs for air breathing.
Where does the Bichir live?
The Bichir lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Swamps and rivers of West, Central and Northeast Africa.
How big does the Bichir get?
The Bichir grows to a maximum of about 70 cm.
Is the Bichir dangerous to humans?
No, the Bichir 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 Bichir edible?
Yes, the Bichir is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Bichir?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bichir is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Polypterus
More from the family Polypteridae
Want the complete picture on the Bichir?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bichir is one of 12,519 species in the app.