Bowfin and Similar Species
Amia calva
Got a photo? Identify fish instantly with the Fishby app.
Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Bowfin. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Snakehead (various species, e.g., Northern Snakehead)
Channa argus
Key differences: Snakeheads have a much shorter dorsal fin, a more snake-like head with eyes positioned more dorsally, and lack a gular plate and the caudal ocellus. Their scales are also typically smaller and more numerous.
Gar (various species, e.g., Longnose Gar)
Lepisosteus osseus
Key differences: Gars have an extremely elongated, cylindrical body with a very long, narrow snout (beak-like jaws) filled with needle-sharp teeth. Their scales are rhomboid-shaped ganoid scales, which are much harder and more diamond-like than the Bowfin's. Gars also have a much shorter dorsal fin and lack a gular plate and caudal ocellus.
Burbot
Lota lota
Key differences: Burbot have a single barbel on their chin, a much shorter dorsal fin (often two distinct dorsal fins), and a more eel-like body shape. They lack the gular plate and caudal ocellus of the Bowfin.
Explore Bowfin
Identify fish anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full species details, and more.