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Polypterus lapradei
Scientific name: Polypterus lapradei (Steindachner, 1869)
Synonyms: Polypterus bichir lapradei
Common name(s): None
Origin: Most of West Africa
Max reported size (TL): 740mm (30")
Description: Grey to greenish-grey colouration, with a paler ventral surface.
Horizontal bands evident on the upper surface from the head to the dorsal finlets, and extending about halfway along
the side of the body from behind the gills. The flanks have irregular vertical bands.
Prominent lower jaw longer than upper jaw. 13-17 dorsal spines.
Comments:
This species is now a fairly common import, and captive-bred fish are also available in the trade.
P. lapradei is very difficult to distinguish from P. bichir, particularly when markings are faded, as in stressed or
newly imported fish.
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