Dinosaur Bichir

Dinosaur Bichir (Polypterus senegalus)

Origin: Africa (Nile, Senegal basins, and West African rivers)
Adult size: 30 to 35 cm in aquarium
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years (sometimes more in captivity)

Water parameters:

• Temperature: 24 – 28 °C

• pH: 6.5 – 7.8

• Hardness: 5 – 20 dGH

Recommended aquarium:

• Minimum volume: 250 liters (ideally more, as it likes to swim at the bottom)

• Substrate: sand or fine gravel

• Decor: hiding places (rocks, roots, tubes) and shaded areas

• Lid mandatory: excellent jumper

Behavior:

• Calm but predatory; not suitable with small fish (it will eat them).

• Tolerates large, robust tank mates well (peaceful cichlids, large barbs, large characins).

• Nocturnal and discreet during the day.

Diet:

• Carnivorous: shrimp, mussels, earthworms, fish pieces, carnivorous pellets.

• Preferably feed in the evening.

Special feature:

• Also breathes air → it regularly surfaces.