They are frequently referred to as eels in passing, but is this truly an accurate statement? What qualifies an eel? I don't know about you, but I am of the opinion that semantics make for great conversation.
polypteroids... are they really eels?
- Thread starter the lion who ate the sun
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In my opinion, no they aren't. As far as science and species classification, no they aren't.
The biggest visual difference to me between bichirs and eels are their fins and finlets. With eels all of their fins, with the exception of those that have pectoral fins, are just one continuous ribbon.
The biggest real difference is that eels have a super weird larval stage.
The biggest visual difference to me between bichirs and eels are their fins and finlets. With eels all of their fins, with the exception of those that have pectoral fins, are just one continuous ribbon.
The biggest real difference is that eels have a super weird larval stage.
Definitely not eels in any way, shape or form. I only see them called eels at petco and petsmart when they're labeled as dinosaur eels
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True eels are classified as Order: Anguilliformes. Bichirs are order: Polypteriformes. Even spiny eels and swamp eels are not classified as true eels. They are under Order: Synbranchiformes. Also just like how we call electric eels are not actually an eel but a naked-back knifefish from Order: Gymnotiformes related to the black ghost knife and carapo knife.
Great info, thanks guys! As I seldom say: the less you dont know, the more directions to blankly stare in.
I had suspected as much. Thanks again.
I had suspected as much. Thanks again.
