Cladistia
Cladistia is a small, early-diverging lineage of ray-finned fishes (Actinopterygii). In many classifications, it is treated as a distinct class containing the order Polypteriformes, whose living members are the bichirs (Polypterus) and the reedfish (Erpetoichthys calabaricus). Together they form the extant representatives of this lineage, found primarily in tropical Africa.
Anatomy and physiology of cladistians are marked by elongated bodies and heavy ganoid scales. They possess
Distribution and ecology: Bichirs and reedfish inhabit slow-moving rivers, swamps, and floodplains across sub-Saharan Africa. The
Reproduction and life history: Most species lay eggs (oviparous), and parental care is generally limited. Cladistians
Human context: Bichirs are kept in aquariums and are appreciated for their distinctive appearance and resilience,