The bowfin, Amia calva, is the last surviving member of the order Amiiformes, and of the family Amiidae. The bowfin is a freshwater piscivore, native to southeastern Canada and eastern United States, they prefer shallow, weedy waters of lakes or protected back waters of rivers. The most distinctive characteristic of the bowfin is its very long dorsal fin consisting of 145 to 250 rays, and running from the middle of the back to the base of the tail. They can grow up to 109 cm (43 in) in length, and weigh 9.75 kg (21.5 lb). Other noticeable features are the black “eye spot” usually found high on the caudal peduncle.