Polypterus Lapradei

Polypterus lapradei is one of the larger Polypterus species, found across the Senegal, Niger, and Chad river basins of West Africa. It presents a relatively plain but handsome olive-grey body with minimal patterning compared to more ornate relatives, and in the aquarium its sheer size and commanding presence make it a showpiece species in its own right.

Housing an adult Laprade's Bichir demands a very large aquarium — a minimum of 450 litres for one adult, significantly more for multiples. The standard bichir requirements apply: gapless lid, smooth substrate, good surface air access, and hiding areas. Despite reaching up to 75 cm, this species is remarkably docile toward non-fish-sized tankmates.

Polypterus lapradei is an efficient and eager feeder, readily accepting large meaty foods including cut fish, prawns, earthworm, and large sinking pellets. Regular feeding schedules and large weekly water changes are key to sustaining good health in this long-lived species.

Water: Moderately hard, pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 26–30°C, GH 5–18, KH 3–10. Tank: Minimum 450 L for adults, gapless lid, sand or smooth gravel, large hiding structures. Feeding: Carnivore; cut fish fillet, prawns, earthworm, and jumbo sinking carnivore pellets. Breeding: Egg scatterer in dense vegetation; large conditioning space required; rarely bred in captivity. Compatibility: Peaceful with very large robust species; predatory toward anything small enough to swallow.