African Lungfish - West African

Protopterus annectens is native to the seasonal floodplains and rivers of West and Central Africa. During the dry season it burrows into mud and secretes a protective mucous cocoon, entering aestivation and breathing air through a small opening. In captivity it requires a mud or sand substrate deep enough to burrow, surface access for air breathing, and sole housing due to its extreme aggression. It is a powerful biter capable of inflicting serious wounds. Despite this, it is rewarding to keep and exceptionally long-lived.

Water: 25-30°C, pH 6.5-7.5, soft to moderately hard; must have unobstructed surface access. Tank: Minimum 500L; deep soft substrate for burrowing; robust filtration; secure lid essential. Feeding: Carnivore; earthworms, prawns, whole fish, beef heart, large sinking meaty pellets. Breeding: Builds burrow nest; male guards eggs and fans them with fins; rarely bred in captivity. Compatibility: Solo only; will attack and injure or kill any tankmate.