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Bichir — printable fact sheet
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Animal Fact Sheet
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Bichir
Polypterus senegalus
The Bichir is a primitive, elongated fish native to the freshwater systems of Africa, known for its distinctive armored scales and ability to breathe air. Often described as 'living fossils,' bichirs retain many ancient characteristics, including fleshy pectoral fins and externa…
Did you know?
- Bichirs are among the few fish that can drown if they are unable to reach the water's surface to breathe air.
- Bichirs can walk short distances over land using their strong, lobed fins. They have a unique way of breathing air, surfacing regularly even when underwater. Juvenile bichirs have frilly external gills, which disappear as they mature.
What I learned
Draw the bichir
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