🐟 Senegal Bichir Care Sheet 🔹 Overview Category Details Scientific Name Polypterus senegalus Common Name Senegal Bichir, Dinosaur Eel, Senegal Polypterus Origin West Africa (Senegal, Niger, Gambia, Sudan) Adult Size 30–45 cm (12–18 in) Lifespan 10–15 years Temperament Semi-aggressive; predatory, territorial toward smaller fish Tank Level Bottom-dweller / mid-level swimmer 🔹 Tank Setup Parameter Ideal Range Tank Size 200+ liters (55+ gallons) for a single adult Temperature 24–28 °C (75–82 °F) pH 6.5–7.5 Hardness Soft to medium (5–15 dGH) Substrate Sand or fine gravel (smooth to avoid injury) Decor Driftwood, rocks, caves, dense plants Lighting Low to moderate Filtration Moderate to strong; well-oxygenated water Care Notes: Nocturnal or crepuscular—most active at dawn and dusk. Requires secure tank lid; can breathe atmospheric air using its lungs. Provide plenty of hiding spots; prefers calm water. 🔹 Diet Type: Carnivorous / predatory Best Foods: Live/frozen fish, shrimp, worms, bloodworms, earthworms, sinking pellets for carnivores Feeding Frequency: Every 1–2 days; avoid overfeeding 🔹 Behavior & Compatibility Generally peaceful with larger tankmates but will eat small fish. Semi-aggressive and territorial toward other bottom dwellers of similar size. Can coexist with medium to large cichlids, large catfish, and other bichirs. 🧭 Tank Mate Guide ✅ Compatible Species Larger peaceful or semi-aggressive cichlids Large catfish (Synodontis, Plecos) Large rainbowfish and other robust species ⚠️ Avoid Small fish under 5–7 cm (likely to be eaten) Aggressive species that compete for the same territory Overcrowded tanks 🐣 Breeding Info Difficulty: Very difficult in captivity Method: Egg scatterers in shallow pits; parental care minimal Notes: Mostly bred by advanced aquarists or professional breeders 🌿 Fun Facts Known as a “living fossil” due to primitive lung structure and external gills in juveniles. Can breathe atmospheric air—requires access to the surface. Calm, slow-moving predator; fascinating behavior for large tanks. Please note We don't ship live animals. You can order online and choose click and collect and we will hold it for you.
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