Dýchaly

Dýchaly, also known as lungfish, are a group of primitive fish that have lungs in addition to their gills. This unique adaptation allows them to breathe air, making them the only living group of fish that can survive out of water for extended periods. Dýchaly are found in freshwater habitats across Africa, South America, and Australia. They are characterized by their elongated bodies, large mouths, and a pair of external gill openings. There are two main groups of dýchaly: the African lungfish (Protopterus) and the South American lungfish (Lepidosiren). The African lungfish are the most primitive and have a unique reproductive strategy, where the male carries the eggs on his back until they hatch. The South American lungfish, on the other hand, are more advanced and have a more conventional reproductive system. Dýchaly play a crucial role in their ecosystems, serving as both predators and prey. They are also of interest to scientists due to their unique adaptations and evolutionary history. However, many species are threatened by habitat loss and overfishing, making conservation efforts important for their preservation.