PolypteridaeFreshwater Fishbeginner
Polypterus senegalus 'Senegal Bichir'
Polypterus senegalus
Origin: Africa (widespread)
P
Water Parameters
Temperature24–28 °C
15 °C35 °C
pH6.5–7.5
49
GH (Hardness)4–15 °dGH
0 °dGH30 °dGH
KH (Alkalinity)2–10 °dKH
0 °dKH20 °dKH
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 35 cm
- Min Tank
- 200 L
- Lifespan
- 15+
- Swimming Level
- bottom
- Schooling
- No
- Diet
- carnivore
- Temperament
- predatory; eats small fish; peaceful with large fish
About
Polypterus senegalus, the Senegal or Grey Bichir, is the most commonly available and hardiest polypterid. Grey-green body with primitive dorsal finlets. Adapts well to aquarium life. Can be kept in groups with similarly-sized bichirs. Air-breather.
Care Guide
Tank 200 L+. Temperature 24–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5. Surface access for air breathing. Feed large sinking pellets, earthworms, frozen shrimp. Peaceful with similarly-sized fish. Will eat small fish.
Buy Polypterus senegalus 'Senegal Bichir' from FinsHQ shops
Shops currently listing this species with stock available
No shops are currently listing Polypterus senegalus 'Senegal Bichir'. List your shop on FinsHQ.
Built for aquarium retailers
Sell Polypterus senegalus 'Senegal Bichir' in your shop?
Join aquarium shops already using FinsHQ. Get a beautiful webshop, mobile app, and inventory management — built for aquatic retailers.
Start your free store