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Bowfin

The bowfin is an ancient bony fish species native to North America. As the sole surviving species of the Amiiformes order of the Jurassic period, scientists regard the bowfin as a ’living fossil.’ The bowfin’s elongated body grows quickly and can reach up to 50cm (20 in) long. Their long dorsal fin and rounded caudal fin give them a cylindrical shape. They are a beautiful blend of olive green with black markings and are similar to gars in their appearance and ability to breathe air.

Divesites
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© Shutterstock-Miroslav Halama

Dive sites with this animal

Mares

Rainbow River at KP Hole Park (★4.4)

Sitting about 100 miles north of Tampa, Rainbow River is a jewel of a dive site in the middle of Florida. Crystal clear, as it’s fed from a natural spring, this river is full of unique freshwater fish, turtles, and alligators.