Bowfin ID

Amia calva
Also known as: dogfish

Description: Primitive fish having a stout, tubular body shape; large mouth with many sharp teeth; soft dorsal fin along more than half of its back; with a rounded tail fin and a dark spot near top of tail fin base. This is the only living species of this family. Like gars, it has a swim bladder that functions much like a lung, allowing it to live in waters containing low oxygen levels. Fish are the primary food item, followed closely by crayfish. Clear, vegetated waters are preferred. Seldom caught by anglers.

Family: Bowfin
Type: Non-Game Fish
Range: Missouri River

References

The Fishes of Nebraska by Hrabik, et. al (2015)