Nile Bichir

Polypterus bichir is the type species of the genus and the largest, potentially reaching 90cm in captivity in a well-maintained system. Native to the Nile, Congo, and Senegal basins, it is a robust and long-lived species that demands significant space and high-quality water. Best kept as a solitary specimen in a very large aquarium.

Water: 26-30°C, pH 7.0-8.0, moderately hard; replicates its native Nile habitat. Tank: Minimum 500L, very heavy lid, large substrate caves, minimal décor for swimming room. Feeding: Carnivore; whole prawns, feeder fish (occasionally), white fish fillet, sinking pellets. Behaviour: Slow and methodical; inhales prey by rapid expansion of the mouth cavity. Compatibility: Species tank or with very large, similarly sized robust fish only.