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The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.

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Common name: barred bichir

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: Bichirs are primitive, elongated fishes that can be distinguished from all other fishes by the presence of up to 15 dorsal finlets (resembling small flags) instead of a continuous dorsal fin. Polypterus delhezi may be distinguished from other bichirs by the presence of 10-13 finlets and 7-8 dark vertical bands.

Size: 44 cm TL (Poll 1941)

Native Range: Polypterus delhezi is native to the Congo River Basin in Africa (Gosse, 1984).

Alaska	Hawaii	Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands	Guam Saipan

Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) Explained
Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Ecology: The Barred Bichir lives in streams, lakes, and flood zones (Matthes 1964 in Froese and Pauly, 2012). Spawning occurs during the rainy season. This species is carnivorous. Polypterus delhezi is a demersal, air breathing species (Matthes 1964 in Froese and Pauly, 2012).

Means of Introduction: Probable aquarium release. Bichirs are popular aquarium fishes.

Status: Failed introduction: no additional specimens reported since 2001.

Impact of Introduction: The impacts of this species are currently unknown, as no studies have been done to determine how it has affected ecosystems in the invaded range. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. It does, however, mean that research is required to evaluate effects before conclusions can be made.

Remarks: Voucher specimen: UF 148738.

References: (click for full references)

Froese, R. and D. Pauly (eds). 2012. FishBase. World Wide Web electronic publication. Available from: http://www.fishbase.org.  Version (08/2012).

Gosse, J.-P. 1984. Polypteridae. 18-29 in Daget, J., J.-P. Gosse, and D.F.E. Thys van den Audenaerde, eds. Check-list of the freshwater fishes of Africa. Volume I. ORSTOM, Paris.

Matthes, H., 1964. Les poissons du lac Tumba et de la région d'Ikela. Étude systématique et écologique. Ann. Mus. R. Afr. Centr., série in-8°, Sci. Zool. 126:204 p.

Shafland, P.L., K.B. Gestring, and M.S. Stanford. 2008. Florida's Exotic Freshwater Fishes - 2007. Florida Scientist 71:220-245.

Other Resources:
US Fish and Wildlife Service Ecological Risk Screening Summary for Polypterus delhezi

Author: Matthew Neilson, and Pam Fuller

Peer Review Date: 8/7/2013

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.