Coelacanths live in deep caves along steep underwater slopes. They have been recorded in the deep waters off Tanzania's northern coast, near Tanga, where a marine park protects them. They live far too deep to be seen by ordinary divers or snorkellers.
Fish
West Indian Ocean Coelacanth
Latimeria chalumnae
A "living fossil" fish, thought extinct for 66 million years, found off the Tanzanian coast.
Size
Up to 2 m; 90 kg
Lifespan
60 years or more
Diet
Fish and squid.
Habitat
Deep water caves at 100-300 metres.
About the west indian ocean coelacanth
Did you know?
01
It was thought extinct until a live one was found in 1938.
02
It has fleshy, limb-like fins.
03
Tanzania is one of the few countries where it lives.
When to see it
Seen all year round; the best sightings depend on where you are.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
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Dec
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