Can Guinean Bichir and Polypterus Bichir Lapradei Live Together?

Guinean Bichir is a moderately assertive species (5/10), while Polypterus Bichir Lapradei is moderately assertive (6/10). This modest difference means Polypterus Bichir Lapradei may occasionally assert dominance over Guinean Bichir.

Guinean Bichir and Polypterus Bichir Lapradei both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Worth noting: Guinean Bichir is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Guinean 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 6.5 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 Guinean Bichir and Polypterus Bichir Lapradei together, plan for an aquarium of at least 683 litres with a minimum length of 180 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), Plants - Floating. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.