Can Delhezi Bichir (Armored Bichir) and Payara Live Together?

Delhezi Bichir (Armored Bichir) is a moderately assertive species (6/10), while Payara is semi-aggressive (7/10). This modest difference means Payara may occasionally assert dominance over Delhezi Bichir (Armored Bichir).

In terms of spatial distribution, Delhezi Bichir (Armored Bichir) prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Payara occupies the Middle (Open Water) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Worth noting: Delhezi Bichir (Armored Bichir) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Delhezi Bichir (Armored Bichir) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Delhezi Bichir (Armored Bichir) and Payara together, plan for an aquarium of at least 1000 litres with a minimum length of 240 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Delhezi Bichir (Armored Bichir) prefers Low (Still Water) flow while Payara needs High (River/Stream) flow. Consider positioning filter outlets and using baffles to create zones of different current intensity within the same tank.

This pairing usually fails when the tank is treated like a standard mixed community and the caution flags are ignored. Delhezi Bichir (Armored Bichir) and Payara need extra room, more cover, and closer observation during the first few weeks so small aggression, feeding, or territory issues do not snowball into a long-term problem.