The Bowfin has a long, cylindrical body and a distinctive dorsal fin that runs the length of its back. A memorable fact is that it is a living fossil, with ancestors dating back over 200 million years.
Habitat
Prefers slow-moving waters, swamps, and lakes.
Diet
Carnivorous, feeding on fish, amphibians, and invertebrates.
How common
Common
Recent Bowfin sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Bowfin? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Bowfin is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love fish? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.