Polypterus congicus

(Boulenger, 1898)

Vernacular names
English : Congo bichir
French : Polyptère du Congo

Classification
Class : Cladistii
Order : Polypteriformes
Family : Polypteridae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
The species grows to 97 cm in length. Huge bichir with lower jaw larger than upper jaw. Coloration beige to beige-grey with up to 9 transversal bars, breaking up on flanks not reaching white belly. Fins weakly spotted black.

Range and habitat
The species lives in central Africa, in most of the Congo River basin and in Lake Tanganyika. Lives in streams, lakes, rivers and flooded areas.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : The species has a large range and seems to be widespread. No threats are known at this time.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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