Bichirs: Polypteriformes

Not much is known about bichirs. They are reported to "walk" over land for small distances to feed on insects, because they are able to absorb oxygen directly from the air for at least a few hours. In aquariums the behavior of bichirs varies from remaining motionless on the bottom for short periods to swimming about vigorously. Their pectoral (PECK-ter-uhl) fins, or front pair, function as paddles.

Male bichirs use their anal (AY-nuhl) and caudal (KAW-duhl) fins to surround a female's genital (JEN-ih-tuhl), or reproductive, opening, making a pouch that receives the eggs from the female. The anal fin is the one that runs along the bottom of the body, and the caudal fin is the one at the end of the body. Fertilization (FUR-teh-lih-zay-shun), the joining of egg and sperm to start development, occurs in the pouch made with the fins. The male releases the eggs by shaking his anal fin, and the eggs quickly attach to plants. Bichirs do not care for their eggs or their young.