Lepidosireniformes

The order Lepidosireniformes, also known as lungfish, is a group of six species of air-breathing fish belonging to the subclass Dipnoi. These fish first appeared in the Early Devonian Epoch and are found in freshwater environments in Africa, South America, and Australia.1

Lungfish are characterized by their ability to breathe atmospheric air using lungs, which are derived from their swim bladder. This adaptation allows them to survive in oxygen-poor waters by gulping air at the surface. African and South American lungfish have two functional lungs, while the Australian lungfish has one.12

These fish are generally large, with some species reaching lengths of up to 2 meters (about 7 feet). They are voracious eaters and have unique dental structures for crushing prey. Lungfish play a minor economic role, primarily as food in some parts of Africa and South America.1