Weeksii Bichir

Polypterus weeksii is a large polypterid from the upper Congo River basin, less frequently encountered in the ornamental trade than senegalus, delhezi, or ornatipinnis. Its colouration is subtle — olive to grey-green with low-contrast irregular barring — but its robust, muscular build and large adult size make it a physically impressive fish. In the aquarium it behaves as a typical large bichir: nocturnal, bottom-dwelling, predatory toward small fish, and peaceful with species it cannot consume. Its relative rarity in the hobby stems from lower commercial demand rather than any particular difficulty in husbandry. Keepers who discover it often describe it as one of the more personable bichirs, learning feeding routines quickly and readily investigating their surroundings.

Water: 26–30°C, pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard; stable, well-oxygenated water with good surface agitation. Tank: Minimum 350L, fine substrate, multiple hiding options, extremely secure lid; adult needs 500L+. Feeding: Carnivore; earthworms, large bloodworm, prawn, mussel, quality large sinking pellets. Breeding: No established captive breeding protocol; treat as for P. endlicheri. Compatibility: Peaceful with large robust fish; keep with comparably sized bichirs, catfish, or stingrays.