What is a "bowfin"?

A bowfin, also known as the mudfish or dogfish, is a predatory freshwater fish found in North America. It has a robust and elongated body with a prominent dorsal fin that runs along its back. The bowfin is well-adapted to various aquatic habitats, including swamps, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. It possesses a unique ability to breathe both through gills and a specialized air bladder, allowing it to survive in oxygen-depleted waters. Bowfins are known for their aggressive nature and powerful jaws filled with sharp teeth. They are opportunistic predators, feeding on a wide range of prey such as fish, crustaceans, and amphibians. Despite their ancient lineage and primitive appearance, bowfins have successfully persisted and thrived in diverse aquatic ecosystems, serving as important components of the North American freshwater fauna.