Polypterus Ornatinpinis

The Ornate bichir (Polypterus ornatipinnis) is a prehistoric-looking freshwater fish from Central Africa, known for its bold black-and-cream labyrinth pattern and armored, elongated body. It can grow up to 24 inches (60 cm) in captivity and has primitive lung-like organs, allowing it to gulp air from the surface. Nocturnal and predatory, it does best in large aquariums with secure lids—these powerful fish are skilled escape artists.