Kingdom Animalia Subphylum Vertebrata Subclass Dipnoi Scientific name Protopterus dolloi | Phylum Chordata Class Sarcopterygii Order Lepidosireniformes Rank Species | |
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Similar Protopterus, Lungfish, West African lungfish, Gilled African lungfish, Marbled lungfish | ||
Spotted african lungfish protopterus dolloi
The spotted African lungfish or slender lungfish (Protopterus dolloi) is a species of lungfish from Middle Africa, where found in the Congo, Kouilou-Niari and Ogowe river basins. It is one of four extant species in the genus Protopterus.
Contents
- Spotted african lungfish protopterus dolloi
- Protopterus dolloi spotted african lungfish 07302013
- Habitat
- Biology
- Reproduction
- References
Protopterus dolloi spotted african lungfish 07302013
Habitat
The slender lungfish is a freshwater fish and it largely inhabits the middle and lower Congo River basin. It is a primarily demersal fish, dwelling in the riverbeds of the above basins and in Stanley Pool. During spawning season, females can be found in open water.
Biology
The slender lungfish has an anguilliform body, much like an eel. The body of the slender lungfish is generally brown; young of the species oftentimes have black spots throughout the body, however adults generally lose these spots as they age. Like all African lungfish the slender lungfish is an obligate air-breather and is capable of aestivation; however, it generally does not aestivate.
Reproduction
Spotted African lungfish nests are generally found in June through October. During this time period the male makes a nest and buries it in mud, not unlike the Marbled lungfish mating behavior. He guards both eggs and larvae during this time. The female does not take care of the young but rather during this time can be found open water in rivers within its range.
