Delhezi Bichir (Polypterus delhezi)

Also known as the barred bichir, armoured bichir, bandback bichir, or banded bichir is an elongated fish found in the Congo River, specifically in the upper and middle portions. P. delhezi is greyish in color with specks of yellow or green coloration. Compared to the dorsal side, the ventral surface seems to be lighter in color. It is a rather unique species from a notably old group of fishes, possessing several traits than set them apart from their close relatives. The dorsal fin is very distinct in its shape, made up of a series of individual spines. They have a mostly cartilaginous body, like a shark’s, and the primitive shape of its jawbones, more like a salamander’s than a fish’s.