Ornate Bichir (Polypterus ornatipinnis)

The ornate bichir is the most popular of all bichirs, mainly due to its colors and patterns. It is the most attractive looking bichir. All bichirs possess a modified swim bladder that allows them to breathe atmospheric air and live in water that is very low in oxygen. In fact, they are often able to live out of water for extended periods of time as long as they remain moist.