The grey bichir (Polypterus senegalus) is the most widely distributed and probably the most common species of the bichir family.
This species has 8 to 11 finlets (separate dorsal fin spines), with the first starting about the level of the end of the pectoral fin. Adults have a uniform greyish, brownish or olive back and a more lightly coloured belly.
Juveniles, in contrast show two prominent dark bands along their flanks.