West African lungfish

The West African lungfish is an ancient air-breathing fish that must surface regularly to gulp atmospheric air from its paired lungs. Native to seasonal rivers, swamps and floodplains across West and Central Africa, it survives dry seasons by aestivating in a mucus cocoon buried in mud. It is a large, powerful and highly predatory species that will eat any fish or invertebrate it can swallow, so it is best kept alone. Provide a very large tank with a soft substrate, secure heavy lid and strong filtration, as it is messy. Water chemistry is not critical: soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, warm water suits it. Feed meaty foods such as earthworms, prawns, mussels and fish fillet. Handle with care, as it can bite.