Fin's Fish Guide
The Congo bichir (Polypterus congicus) is a freshwater fish of the family Polypteridae that grows up to 97 cm.
Freshwater of Central Africa, including the Congo basin and Lake Tanganyika.
Description
The Congo bichir is a large, archaic ray-finned fish from fresh waters of Central Africa. The species can reach about 97 cm and has an elongate body armoured with thick rhombic scales and a row of separate finlets along the back instead of a single dorsal fin. With a pair of lung-like, vascularised swim bladders it can gulp air and so survive in low-oxygen water. It lives in streams, lakes and floodplains, including Lake Tanganyika near river mouths, and as a predator hunts fishes and large invertebrates. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Congo bichir?
The Congo bichir has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Armoured with diamond-shaped scales; a row of small dorsal fins and a lung-like swim bladder for air breathing.
Where does the Congo bichir live?
The Congo bichir lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Freshwater of Central Africa, including the Congo basin and Lake Tanganyika.
How big does the Congo bichir get?
The Congo bichir grows to a maximum of about 97 cm.
Is the Congo bichir dangerous to humans?
No, the Congo 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 Congo bichir edible?
The Congo bichir is rarely 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 Congo bichir?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Congo bichir is one of 12,519 species in the app.