Polypterus ansorgii Boulenger 1910

Diagnosis: Polypterus ansorgii is distinguished from other species of the genus by its two jaws of equal length and its dorsal fin set forward, only separated from the head by 11 to 13 scales (Ref. 2835, 81263).Description: Subcylindrical body (Ref. 2756, 42908); body height comprised 7,5 to 8 times in total length and head length 4 to 4,8 times (Ref. 81263). Upper and lower jaw of equal length (Ref. 2835, 3032, 42908). Dorsal fin with 13 to 15 deeply notched rays (Ref. 2835, 3032, 81263). Pectoral fin longer than vertical through first dorsal ray (Ref. 2756). Ganoid scales (Ref. 42904): 55-62 in longitudinal line; 42-46 around body; 11-13 predorsal scales (Ref. 2835, 3032, 42908, 81263).Colouration: The colour is greenish-black with large black blotches on the flanks (Ref. 3023). Body mottled with black on preserved specimens (Ref. 2835, 81263).

Dorsal spines (total): 13 - 15; Dorsal soft rays (total): 0; Analspines: 0; Analsoft rays: 12 - 14

fisheries:

The Guinean bichir (Polypterus ansorgii) is a ray-finned fish from rivers and other freshwater habitats in Western Africa, ranging from Guinea-Bissau to Nigeria. It reaches a maximum length of 72 cm (28 in), is greenish-brown to black in color, and has large, dark spots and blotches on its sides. On mature specimens, the bottom jaw may protrude very slightly. It is similar to some other bichirs with which it can be confused.

Named in honor of explorer William John Ansorge (1850-1913), who collected type specimen.