5 Fascinating Insights on Lungfish for Ornamental Fish Export (2025 Guide)

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Imagine offering your customers a prehistoric fish that can breathe air, survive months without water, and captivate hobbyists with its resilience. That’s exactly what the African lungfish brings to the ornamental fish trade.

Nigeria is home to a rich diversity of over 70 ornamental fish species, many of which are in high demand across Europe, Asia, and North America. Among these exotic treasures, the lungfish (Family Protopteridae) stands out, not just for its biology, but also for its growing appeal in the global aquarium market.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into why lungfish are so important for importers, what makes them unique, and how Nigerian exporters like Mr Fish ensure safe and reliable shipments worldwide.


Table of Contents

  1. About the Protopteridae Family

  2. Unique Biology & Adaptations

  3. Export Potential & Market Demand

  4. Why Importers Choose Nigerian Lungfish

  5. Challenges and Considerations                                                                   




1. About the Protopteridae Family

The Protopteridae family, commonly known as African lungfishes, is a group of freshwater fish native to Africa. They belong to an ancient lineage dating back over 400 million years, making them true “living fossils.”

  • Key Nigerian species: Protopterus annectens (West African lungfish)

  • Appearance: Long, eel-like body with mottled brown or gray coloration

  • Habitat: Slow-moving rivers, swamps, and floodplains

  • Behavior: Known for burrowing into mud and entering dormancy (aestivation) during dry seasons


2. Unique Biology & Adaptations

The African lungfish isn’t just another aquarium species; it’s a marvel of evolution.

  • Dual respiration: Uses both gills and functional lungs, allowing it to breathe air.

  • Aestivation: Can survive months in a mucus cocoon underground when water sources dry up.

  • Longevity: Known to live over 20 years in captivity with proper care.

  • Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on insects, crustaceans, and plant matter.

👉 Why this matters for importers:

  • Lungfish adapt well to a variety of environments, reducing mortality during shipping.

  • Their unique biology attracts advanced hobbyists, collectors, and even researchers.


3. Export Potential & Market Demand

Nigeria is a recognized hub for ornamental fish exports, with lungfish becoming a niche but growing segment of this trade.

  • High demand markets: Europe, Asia (especially Japan and Singapore), and North America.

  • Market trend: Hobbyists increasingly seek rare and exotic species, beyond the common guppies, tetras, and cichlids.

  • Commercial appeal:

    • Exotic appearance - differentiates aquarium stock

    • Resilience - lower risk for importers

    • Storytelling factor - “a fish that can breathe air” sells itself


4. Why Importers Choose Nigerian Lungfish

Importers around the world are turning to Nigerian lungfish because they offer clear, measurable benefits:

  • Resilience during shipping: Survival rates are higher compared to delicate tropical species.

  • Exotic appeal: Distinct from popular South American and Asian exports.

  • Long lifespan: Greater value for aquarists who want lasting additions.

  • Adaptability: Capable of thriving in diverse aquarium conditions.

  • Profitability: Retailers can position lungfish as a premium, rare species.

“When you offer your clients a species as rare and fascinating as the African lungfish, you’re not just selling a fish, you’re selling a story.”


5. Challenges and Considerations

While lungfish are attractive export species, importers should be aware of a few key considerations:

  • Size: Lungfish can grow up to 1 meter, requiring large tanks.

  • Market niche: Best suited for advanced aquarists, not beginners.

  • Legal compliance: Some countries have import restrictions on lungfish; always verify regulations.

  • Shipping care: Requires specialized packaging to ensure oxygenation and comfort.



Importing Nigeria’s Lungfish

Q: Can lungfish be exported to Europe and the US?
✅ Yes. With correct documentation, lungfish are legally exported to both markets.

Q: Are they hardy in long-distance transport?
✅ Extremely. Their ability to breathe air makes them one of the most resilient ornamental exports.

Q: What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
✅ Exporters like Mr Fish can arrange both small and bulk shipments, MOQ typically negotiable based on buyer needs.








The African lungfish isn’t just another ornamental fish, it’s a conversation piece, a collector’s prize, and an exporter’s reliable asset.

For importers in the US and Europe, lungfish from Nigeria offer:

  • Exotic rarity.

  • High survival during transit.

  • Consistent demand.

  • Direct supply from West Africa.

📩 Visit our website at mrfishtropicals.com or contact us today at mrfish@mrfishtropicals.com to discuss your order and elevate your species offerings.

Our shipments reach importers across the USA and Europe with secure, timely delivery. Get in touch today.



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