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West African Lungfish

(Protopterus annectens)

 

Category: Fish

 

 

This species of lungfish inhabits a wide range of habitats in West and Middle Africa, and the northern half of Southern Africa. They have a long eel-like body, small eyes, a prominent snout, and two pairs of long, filamentous fins. During the dry season, they bury themselves deeply in the mud and go into a dormant state (estivation) in which they can survive without food and water for up to 3 ½ years.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_African_lungfish

http://www.petsource.org/aquatic-by-species/aquatic-fresh-water/3533-grey-african-lungfish.html

 

Data & Facts

Scientific Classification
Kingdom - Animalia
Phylum - Chordata
Class - Sarcopterygii
Order - Lepidosireniformes
Family - Protopteridae
Genus - Protopterus
Species - P. annectens

 
Did you know?
Interesting Animal Facts

Hey, Fishlips!

If you’ve ever worn lipstick (or kissed anybody wearing lipstick), you’ve probably had fish scales on your lips. Of course you won’t find “herring scales from commercial fishing hauls” on the ingredients list of your cosmetics - they list it as the regal-sounding “pearl essence” or “pearlescence.” But why? Because the scales of silvery fish that capture and reflect light so beautifully in the water function the same way on your lips. So maybe next time somebody calls you “fish lips,” don’t jump to conclusions too quickly, maybe they mean it as a compliment!

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