Weeksii Bichir (Polypterus weeksii)

The Weeksii Bichir is also known as the Mottled or Fatheaded Bichir. It originates from the Congo River basin in Central Africa. They have the ability to survive out of water for short periods of time provided they remain moist.

Like the Retropinnis Bichir, they posses a modified swim bladder that function as lungs, as well as a set of gills. These fish can actually drown if they are unable to surface to take a gulp of atmospheric air. They are greenish brown in color with black banding. Males have a thicker anal fin than females of the species and are usually a bit smaller.