Edit Protopterus annectens annectens
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Name
Scientific name
Protopterus annectens annectens
Described by
Not recorded
Family
Protopteridae
Common names
African Lungfish
Photograph credits
All 2 credited
Summary
The African lungfish, Protopterus annectens annectens, is a lungfish found in 17 African countries, including Senegal, Nigeria, Kenya and S…
Size and aquarium
Maximum size
1000mm, standard length
Aquarium size
Minimum length 180 cm, Minimum depth 75 cm, Minimum height 75 cm, Water movement Low: still or sluggish water
Water
Water conditions
24–30°C
Hardness
0–10dGH
Conductivity
Not recorded
Behaviour
Temperament
Not recorded
Social needs
Not recorded
Community suitability
Not recorded
Where it lives
Countries, regions, rivers and lakes
Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo, Gambia
Writing
Etymology
Not written yet
Distribution
It is widespread, being found in Sierra Leone, Guinea, Togo, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Niger, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Gambia, Ghana, Central African Republic, Chad…
Habitat
It usually inhabits temporary floodplains that are completely dry for part of the year. It also occurs in swamps, marshes, and backwaters.
Aquarium size
Although a large aquarium is obviously required for an adult fish, the fish are not terribly active. Therefore, you can probably get away with keeping one in a…
Maintenance
Water movement in the aquarium should be kept to a minimum. This species is unfussy with regards to decor. Some cover can be provided in the form of roots, bra…
Water conditions
Temperature: 24 – 30 °C pH: 76 - 86°F (25 - 30°C) Hardness: Up to 10°H
Diet
P. a. annectens is omnivorous in nature, feeding on fish, shellfish, amphibians and plant matter. It will adapt to a variety of foods in the aquarium. Offer pr…
Behaviour and compatibility
Best kept singly and alone. Some hobbyists do keep lungfish with other large species but this is very risky. Lungfish are unpredictable and can bite chunks out…
Sexual dimorphism
Not known.
Reproduction
Spawning has not yet been achieved in captivity. In nature, the fish construct nests into which the eggs are deposited. The nest is then protected by the male …
Notes
Lungfish are among the most intriguing of "oddball" aquarium subjects, being able to survive in the most extreme conditions. They are very ancient fish, having…
References
References
No references