![Polypterus, close-up](Images/new.jpg)
![Polypterus, head](Images/polypterus-head.jpg)
Polypterus palmas buettikoferi
Scientific name: Polypterus palmas buettikoferi (Steindachner, 1891) [NOT VALID]
Common name(s): Buettikofer's bichir, Gold Dust Bichir
![Polypterus palmas buettikoferi (Gold Dust Bichir)](Images/p_p_buettikoferi-juv1.jpg)
Origin: West Africa
Max reported size (SL): 353mm (14")
Description: The dorsal surface in front of the dorsal spines has forward-pointing "V-shaped" markings, which extend as diagonal bands onto the lateral surface. There are also diagonal bands on the flanks. Juveniles have a more dense colour pattern. The ventral surface is a uniform pale yellowish colour. Dorsal finlets have contrasting dark and light colouration. There are 7-10 dorsal spines.
Comments: This bichir was designated as a subspecies of Polypterus palmas for many years (see main reference below), but is now considered a variant.
Main References:
Hanssens, M.M., G.G.Teugels, D.F.E.Thys Van den Audenaerde (1995): Subspecies in the Polypterus palmas complex (Brachiopterygii; Polypteridae) from West and Central Africa. Copeia 1995 (3): 694-705.
Timo Moritz and Ralf Britz (2019): Revision of the extant Polypteridae (Actinopterygii: Cladistia). Ichthyological Exploration of Freshwaters. IEF-1094: 1-96