Reedfish

Erpetoichthys calabaricus is the sole species in its genus and a close relative of Polypterus, belonging to the order Polypteriformes. It is native to freshwater and brackish habitats in West and Central Africa, particularly the Niger Delta, Congo basin, and coastal rivers of Cameroon and Nigeria. The reedfish is immediately recognizable by its extremely elongated, snake-like body, which can reach 37–40 cm in length, and its complete lack of pelvic fins—unique among polypteriforms. Like bichirs, it possesses thick, articulated ganoid scales, 7–13 dorsal finlets, and paired ventral lungs for obligate air-breathing. The pectoral fins are small but lobed, and the body is highly flexible, enabling the fish to move through dense vegetation and even over land for short distances. E. calabaricus is a nocturnal predator that inhabits slow-moving, densely vegetated waters, feeding on insects, worms, and small crustaceans. Its sensory system relies heavily on olfaction rather than vision. Reproduction is poorly documented in the wild; in captivity, spawning is rare. Males have a thicker, more muscular anal fin used for egg reception. The reedfish is popular in the aquarium trade due to its unusual appearance and behavior. Scientifically, it is valuable for understanding body elongation, limb loss, and air-breathing evolution in early actinopterygians.