XL Senegal Polypterus (7-8”)

Scientific Name:

Polypterus senegalus

Maximum Size and Lifespan:

• Size: Up to 12-14 inches (35–45 cm) in captivity (typically around 10-12 inches in most home aquariums).

• Lifespan: Up to 15-20 years with proper care.

Recommended Aquarium Size:

• Minimum tank size: 40 gallons for a single adult; larger (75–100+ gallons) recommended for multiple bichirs or large tankmates.

• Tank Dimensions: A long tank is preferred over tall tanks due to their bottom-dwelling, horizontal swimming behavior.

Water Changes and Care:

• Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Water changes: 25–30% weekly to maintain water quality.

• Filtration: Strong filtration is important but avoid strong currents. Use a canister filter or sponge-filtered sump.

Tank Setup and Care Notes:

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel; they enjoy burrowing slightly.

• Décor: Provide hiding places like driftwood, caves, and plants.

• Lid Required: Bichirs are notorious escape artists; a tight-fitting lid is mandatory.

• Lighting: Moderate to low lighting, as they are crepuscular/nocturnal.

• Behavior: Slow-moving, peaceful with similarly sized or larger fish. Primarily bottom dwellers, active during dawn/dusk.

Tankmates:

• Compatible With:

  • Other bichirs, Large peaceful cichlids (Severums, Angelfish), Rope fish, Silver dollars, Larger Clown loaches, they do well with a great variety of fish that don't fit in their mouths.

• Avoid:

  • Small fish (e.g., neon tetras, guppies) — will be eaten
    

Diet:

• Carnivorous (primarily a predator)

• Diet Includes:

  • frozen foods: bloodworms, shrimp, krill, earthworms, tilapia

  • Pellets: high-quality sinking carnivore pellets or wafers
    

• Feed 3–4 times a week; do not overfeed.

Overview:

Senegal Bichirs are ancient, primitive fish known for their unique appearance and ability to breathe atmospheric air via a modified swim bladder. This adaptation allows them to survive in oxygen-depleted waters. They are hardy, adaptable, and excellent for experienced aquarists seeking a unique bottom-dweller. Their behavior is slow and almost reptilian, making them a fascinating display fish.

Natural Environment:

• Habitat: Freshwater river basins and floodplains across West and Central Africa, especially the Nile and Niger Rivers.

• Environment: Slow-moving or stagnant waters, murky with low visibility. Rich in organic material, roots, and vegetation.

• Behavior: Nocturnal ambush predators that rely on stealth.

Breeding:

• Difficulty: Rare in home aquaria; more common in commercial or specialized setups.

• Breeding Notes:

  • Males have more muscular and broader anal fins.

  • Stimulated by seasonal changes in water levels, temperature, and diet.

  • Males fertilize eggs externally after clasping the female.

  • Eggs are scattered among plants and hatch in 3–4 days.

  • Fry require live baby brine shrimp.