Fin's Fish Guide
The East african lungfish (Protopterus amphibius) is a freshwater fish of the family Protopteridae that grows up to 44 cm.
Description
The East African lungfish is a lungfish from fresh water of East Africa. The species grows to about 44 cm and has an eel-shaped, smooth body with thread-like pectoral and pelvic fins. As an ancient fish it possesses true lungs with which it breathes air; in the dry season it burrows into the mud and survives in a mucus cocoon until the rains return. It hunts molluscs, crustaceans and small fish. The fish is largely harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the East african lungfish?
The East african lungfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. True lungs and thread-like fins; survives drought in a mucus cocoon
Where does the East african lungfish live?
The East african lungfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. East Africa
How big does the East african lungfish get?
The East african lungfish grows to a maximum of about 44 cm.
Is the East african lungfish dangerous to humans?
No, the East 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 East african lungfish edible?
The East african lungfish is rarely eaten.
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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 East african lungfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the East african lungfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.