Dinosaur Bichir ~ Polypterus senegalus

Description & Care Guide:
The Dinosaur Bichir, also known as the Senegal Bichir, is an ancient, prehistoric-looking species that adds a unique, "dinosaur-like" charm to any aquarium. With its elongated body, armored appearance, and pectoral fins, it resembles the first vertebrates that crawled onto land millions of years ago. Known for its hardy nature and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, the Dinosaur Bichir is an active predator, feeding on smaller fish, invertebrates, and other meaty foods. While it is peaceful overall, it can be territorial, particularly during feeding times, and should be housed with similarly sized tank mates.

• Difficulty Level: Moderate

• Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons

• Food Requirements: Carnivorous – feeds on live or frozen foods like worms, small fish, and shrimp

• Temperament: Peaceful but territorial during feeding; best kept with larger, non-aggressive species

• Water Parameters: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.5 - 7.5), temperatures between 75-82°F (24-28°C)

• Full Grown Size: 12-15 inches (30-38 cm)

Wild Habitats/Origins:
Native to the slow-moving rivers, swamps, and floodplains of West Africa, the Dinosaur Bichir is typically found in murky, oxygen-rich waters where it uses its pectoral fins to "walk" along the substrate. These habitats offer plenty of hiding spots and allow the Bichir to scavenge for small fish and invertebrates. In the wild, they are often seen burrowing into the sand or mud, which is why they require a soft substrate in the aquarium.

Fun Fact:
The Dinosaur Bichir is often called a "living fossil" because its appearance has changed very little over millions of years. Its ability to "walk" on the substrate with its pectoral fins and breathe air from the surface makes it a fascinating and unique species in the aquarium world.