Fishician®Diet
Carnivore – sinking pellets, frozen krill, shrimp, earthworms, occasional feeder fish
Aquarium species profile
Senegal Bichir
Polypterus senegalus · Africa (widespread; Nile, Congo, West African rivers)
Minimum tank55 gal
Adult size12–14"
Care levelEasy
TemperamentSemi-Aggressive
Temperature75–82°F
pH range6.5–7.5
Compatible tank mates
Larger peaceful or robust fish; large Plecos, larger cichlids, Knife Fish
Tank mates to avoid
Small fish (will eat), invertebrates
Care notes
Living fossil with primitive lung; gulps air at surface. Hardy and long-lived. Poor eyesight; finds food by smell. Powerful jumper; tight lid essential.
Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.