Fin's Fish Guide
The Bichir (Polypterus bichir) is a freshwater fish of the family Polypteridae that grows up to 74 cm.
Description
The Nile bichir is a large ancient fish of the bichir family (Polypteridae) from the Nile and adjacent African drainages. The species grows to about 74 cm and has an elongate, snake-like body covered with hard, rhomboid ganoid scales and a row of small finlets on the back, characteristic of bichirs. It inhabits shallow bank and swamp zones, where it likes to lie basking. Bichirs are living fossils that can breathe air with a pair of primitive lungs and so survive in oxygen-poor water. As a predator it hunts, mainly at night, fishes, amphibians, insects and crustaceans. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bichir?
The Bichir has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Living fossil with ganoid scales, dorsal finlets and primitive lungs for breathing air.
Where does the Bichir live?
The Bichir lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa; Nile and adjacent river basins, shallow bank and swamp zones.
How big does the Bichir get?
The Bichir grows to a maximum of about 74 cm.
Is the Bichir dangerous to humans?
No, the Bichir is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bichir edible?
Yes, the Bichir is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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.