Slender Lungfish

Protopterus dolloi is native to the Congo River basin and coastal rivers of Gabon, inhabiting swampy, oxygen-depleted habitats. Its remarkably elongated, almost serpentine body distinguishes it clearly from its African congeners. Like all lungfishes it breathes primarily via lungs and will drown if unable to reach the surface. It is highly aggressive and must be kept alone. While reaching a more manageable size than the Marbled Lungfish, it still requires a substantial aquarium. Rarely available — a genuine specialist fish.

Water: 25-30°C, pH 6.0-7.5, soft to moderately hard; tannin-enriched water beneficial. Tank: Minimum 600L; deep soft substrate; surface access essential; secure lid to prevent escape. Feeding: Carnivore; earthworms, prawns, mussels, whole fish; sinking carnivore pellets accepted in time. Breeding: Not recorded in home aquaria; builds mud burrow nest in the wild. Compatibility: Solo only; aggressive and territorial; bites hard.