Bowfin

The bowfin is a tough, ancient fish that lives in North America's freshwater habitats. Often called mudfish or grindle, it's one of the last survivors of a fish group that dates back 250 million years. Its body shape and features have changed very little since the time of dinosaurs.

• Bowfins can breathe both water and air using a special swim bladder.
• They belong to a small group of fish that includes only two living species.
• Their closest living relatives are gars, another group of primitive fish.