Senegal bichir

Polypterus senegalus

Wild range: Nile River Basin (Africa)

At a glance: Senegal bichir care

Compiled reference information. Review the care notes and original sources below.

What temperature is listed for Senegal bichir?

The compiled profile lists 25.0–29.0 °C for Senegal bichir (Polypterus senegalus). Check the original sources below for context and differing recommendations.

What tank size is listed for Senegal bichir?

The profile lists a minimum tank volume of 50.0 US gallons (189.3 liters). Volume alone does not establish suitability; consider dimensions, group size and other inhabitants alongside the full care notes.

What pH is listed for Senegal bichir?

The compiled profile lists a pH of 6.0–8.0. Review the cited care sources alongside the other water parameters in this profile.

Natural habitat

Bichirs inhabit the freshwater regions of the Nile River and its tributaries. They are well-adapted to both freshwater and semi-brackish environments, where they can hide among the vegetation and substrate while hunting for prey.

Where they are found

They are distributed across various tropical regions of Africa, similar to their habitats in the wild.

Aquarium care

To successfully keep a bichir, maintain a spacious tank (minimum 90 gallons) with gentle water flow, stable water quality, and good filtration. Regular water changes and monitoring of pH, ammonia, and nitrite levels are essential. The addition of freshwater salt may benefit their health, while also providing hiding spots is crucial to ensuring their comfort.

Feeding

Senegal bichirs are carnivorous and prefer live or frozen foods like shrimp and earthworms. It's crucial to ensure each fish receives proper portions, as they are slow feeders.

Compatibility

While Senegal bichirs are generally peaceful, they require tankmates at least half their size and should only be housed with similarly sized fish to prevent predation. Suitable companions include larger catfish and cichlids.

Breeding

Breeding bichirs in captivity may be challenging, as these fish typically require specific conditions that mimic their natural habitat. Breeders often note that breeding occurs when temperatures are stable and conditions are optimal, though successful breeding attempts are rare in home aquariums.

Sources

Compiled from multiple independent care sheets — not copied from a single site.