Reedfish

Identification

The reedfish is an elongated, snake-like fish of 30 to 40 cm with a distinctly primitive appearance. The body is cylindrical, covered in hard, diamond-shaped ganoid scales that function as armor. The dorsal fin consists of a series of separate flag-like fin rays. No pelvic fins. Color is olive-green to brown.

Ecology

A primitive ray-finned fish from West Africa, related to bichirs (Polypteridae). Possesses functional lungs alongside gills and can breathe atmospheric air. In the wild, lives in shallow, vegetated freshwaters in Nigeria and Cameroon. Nocturnal; feeds on insects, worms, and small fish.

In the Netherlands

The reedfish is a popular aquarium fish kept in the Netherlands. Wild sightings almost certainly involve escaped or released aquarium specimens. The species cannot survive Dutch winters.