May 3, 2023
An ancient species of mermaid, bichirs have survived many catastrophes and impacts that killed off other species. Though terrestrial vertebrates ultimately evolved from a different line of fish, bichirs are seen as a "missing link", having both gills and lungs, arms and finlets. Bichirs produce frog-like eggs that hatch into free-living embryos that resemble those of actual amphibians, with black bodies and fluffy external gills. Despite their strong claws and sharp teeth, bichirs are really friendly and inquisitive.