A fascinating, prehistoric-looking predatory fish often called the 'Dinosaur Eel'. They possess a modified swim bladder acting as a lung and must have access to the surface to breathe. Though peaceful with large, deep-bodied tank mates, they are strictly carnivorous and will consume any fish or invertebrate that fits in their mouths. Excellent escape artists; a heavy, tight-fitting lid is mandatory.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The standard, wild-type Senegal Bichir with a grey/olive coloration. A peaceful giant towards appropriately sized tank mates.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Wild Type, Normal
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Young Bichirs grow rapidly and require frequent feedings of high-protein meaty foods. They can temporarily be housed in smaller grow-out tanks but will quickly need an upgrade to their adult footprint.
Differs in 5 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby, Small
Albino
A very popular, selectively bred morph featuring a stark white or pinkish body with red eyes. Their care is identical to the standard type, though they generally have poorer eyesight and rely heavily on their sense of smell to hunt.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Albino Dinosaur Eel, White
Senegal Bichir Care Summary
The Senegal Bichir, scientifically known as Polypterus senegalus, belongs to the Oddballs family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 30 cm and have a eel body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the bottom zone of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Senegal Bichir requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 200 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 25°C and 29°C, with a pH range of 6.2–7.8 and a general hardness of 5–20 dGH. A low water flow is preferred. To replicate their natural habitat, the tank should include sand (sifters), smooth gravel (sensitive barbels), and driftwood (digestion/hiding).
Senegal Bichir can be kept singly or in a group, making them flexible additions to most setups. Keepers should be aware that this species will prey on fish small enough to fit in its mouth, is not safe with ornamental shrimp, is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential, and is primarily active at night or during twilight hours. This species is available in 3 varieties: Standard, Juvenile (Grow-out), and Albino. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Similar Species
Reedfish (Ropefish)
Erpetoichthys calabaricus
An ancient, eel-like species from West Africa closely related to Bichirs. They are famous for their snake-like appearance and gentle nature. Unlike Bichirs, Ropefish are social and prefer to be kept in groups. They are nocturnal hunters using smell to find food. WARNING: They are legendary escape artists; a tight-fitting lid without even the smallest gap is 100% mandatory.
Zebra Danio
Danio rerio
One of the most robust and active aquarium fish available. Native to South Asia, they are a model organism in science due to their genetics. They are extremely active top-level swimmers that must be kept in schools to prevent stress and fin-nipping. They prefer cooler, oxygen-rich water with a current.
Red-Tail Catfish
Phractocephalus hemioliopterus
A massive, fast-growing predatory catfish from the Amazon basin. Famous for its voracious appetite, bulldozer-like behavior, and distinct red caudal fin. Due to its enormous adult size (often exceeding 4 feet), it is strictly a 'monster fish' that requires a heated indoor pond or a colossal custom aquarium. It is highly predatory and will swallow absolutely any tank mate that can fit into its cavernous mouth.
Yoyo Loach
Botia almorhae
A popular, energetic, and boisterous bottom dweller native to the slow-moving and still waters of the Ganges basin (India/Pakistan). Named 'Yoyo' because the dark reticulated patterns on juveniles often resemble the letters Y-O-Y-O. As they mature, the pattern becomes a complex mosaic. They are excellent snail eaters but can be semi-aggressive/boisterous, making them unsuitable for shy or long-finned tank mates.
Leopard Bushfish (Ctenopoma)
Ctenopoma acutirostre
A fascinating, ancient African anabantoid that mimics a dead leaf to ambush prey. They possess a surprisingly large, extendable mouth. While slow-moving and generally peaceful towards fish too large to swallow, they are efficient predators of small fish and invertebrates. They are crepuscular (active at twilight) and require structure (wood/plants) to feel secure.
Sterba's Corydoras
Corydoras sterbai
A highly popular and peaceful schooling catfish known for its striking white-on-black spotted pattern and bright orange pectoral fins. Uniquely among Corydoras, they thrive in higher temperatures, making them excellent bottom-dwelling companions for warm-water species like Discus. They are obligate shoalers and must be kept on fine sand to prevent the erosion and infection of their delicate barbels.