west african lungfish
| Scientific name | Protopterus annectens |
|---|---|
| Descriptor | Owen |
| Year of description | 1839 |
| IUCN category | LC |
| Family | Protopteridae |
| Genus | Protopterus |
Introduction
Protopterus annectens, commonly known as west african lungfish, is a fresh water fish from the Africa.
Who is it?
Morphology
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Average size80 cm
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Maximum size100 cm
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Mimicrymud
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Patternmottling
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Average size80 cm
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Maximum size100 cm
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Mimicrymud
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Patternmottling
How to recognize the west african lungfish ?
The west african lungfish measures between 80 and 100 cm. This fish is unicolore with a predominantly marron, beige and gris body. The also has noir and marron mottling.
Behaviour & Life cycle
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dietcarnivorous
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Sociabilitysolitary
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territorialNo
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Way of livingdiurnal
The west african lungfish is a fish solitary naturally found on the bottom. This species is carnivorous .
Although the west african lungfish is non-territorial, it is sometimes aggressive towards other species.
Reproduction
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Reproductionovipare
The west african lungfish is a fish ovipare. This fish protects its eggs from nearby predators.
Harmless species
This species does not represent any particular threats to humans when encountered in its natural environment.
Where to find it?
Where to see this species?
What is its habitat?
Natural environment characteristics
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Temperature25 - 30 °C
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FlowSlow
Biotope presentation
The acidification of water comes from the decomposition of plants. This phenomenon changes the color of the water, which tends to turn brown. In some areas particularly rich in organic matter, the water is so dark that it is called "black water".
This animal evolves in areas characterized by a strong presence of vegetation (aquatic and marsh plants, decaying organic matter, roots...).
To go further
To read on the web
Sources & Contributions
Participation & Validation
The Fishipedia team and specialist contributors are committed to providing high-quality content. However, although the information comes from scientific sources or testimonials from specialists, the cards may contain inaccuracies.
Adrien Falzon
Translation
Translation done with the valuable contribution of our translators, who make this information available to a wider audience. We sincerely thank them for their commitment.
Where to see this species?
Species of the same biotope
Scientific partners