bowfin
(Amia calva)
This species is Native to certain parts of the United States but may be invasive to others
Status: Native
Length: Maximum length approx. 2 feet
Body: Torpedo-shaped
Pattern: Usually olive green above, creamy below, sometimes with a netlike patterning on the sides.
ID: Pelvic fins set back from the pectoral fins and gills; a short anal fin; males have a distinct black spot on the base of the tail.
Notes: Commonly encountered in freshwater lakes, marshes, rivers and canals throughout the state of Florida.
Length: Maximum length approx. 2 feet
Body: Torpedo-shaped
Pattern: Usually olive green above, creamy below, sometimes with a netlike patterning on the sides.
ID: Pelvic fins set back from the pectoral fins and gills; a short anal fin; males have a distinct black spot on the base of the tail.
Notes: Commonly encountered in freshwater lakes, marshes, rivers and canals throughout the state of Florida.
Selected Images
Maps
EDDMapS Distribution - This map is incomplete and is based only on current site and county level reports made by experts, herbaria, and literature. For more information, visit www.eddmaps.org
State Lists - This map identifies those states that have this species on their invasive species list or law.
Taxonomic Rank
| Domain: Eukarya |
| Kingdom: Animalia |
| Phylum: Chordata |
| Subphylum: Vertebrata |
| Class: Actinopterygii |
| Subclass: Neopterygii |
| Order: Amiiformes |
| Family: Amiidae |
| Genus: Amia |
| Amia calva |
References
Common Name Reference: Integrated Taxonomic Information System on-line database.
Scientific Name Reference: Integrated Taxonomic Information System on-line database.