Category:Bichirs

Bichirs are part of the Polypteridae family. The Bichir family consists of a small group of primitive fish from tropical Africa. The fish in this family are characterized by an elongated, snake-like body and two strong, paddle-like pectoral fins. Each ray of the dorsal fin is separate giving the dorsal fin the appearance of many small fins. Polypterides are generally large, carnivorous fish that must be carefully combined in a tank having other species. Polypterides have an accessory breathing organ which is linked to the small intestine. The young of some species possess external gills, similar to those of newts in the larval stage. In nature many species leave the water for extended periods during the evening to search mud flats and sandbars for food. Generally Polypterides are long-lived.