Polypterus Senegalus

The Polypterus Senegalus, commonly known as the Senegal Bichir or Gray Bichir, is a unique and ancient species of fish native to the freshwater rivers and lakes of West Africa, particularly in Senegal, which is where it gets its name. This fish belongs to the Polypteridae family, known for its primitive appearance and characteristics that date back to the Cretaceous period. The Senegal Bichir is prized for its distinctive appearance, hardy nature, and fascinating behavior, making it a popular choice among experienced aquarium enthusiasts.

🐠 Appearance:

• Size: Typically grows to around 12–14 inches (30–35 cm) in length, although it can sometimes reach up to 16 inches (40 cm) in larger tanks.

• Coloration:

  • The body is generally gray to olive-green with darker spots or blotches across the body, providing excellent camouflage in its natural environment.

  • The head is elongated and features a bony, armored structure, with sharp teeth visible in the lower jaw.

  • It has dorsal finlets (a series of smaller dorsal fins) along its back, which gives the Bichir a distinctive, primitive look.

  • Its pectoral fins are large and fleshy, resembling arms, and are crucial for crawling along the substrate in its natural habitat.

🌿 Tank Requirements:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for a single Senegal Bichir, but larger tanks are ideal for multiple fish or when the fish grows to its full size.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

  • pH: 6.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

  • Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Environment:

  • Prefers well-oxygenated tanks with plenty of hiding places like caves, driftwood, and rocks, which mimic its natural riverbed environment.

  • It does well in a soft substrate like sand or fine gravel that allows it to burrow and explore.

  • Planted tanks are also suitable, but leave open swimming areas for the Bichir to move freely.

  • Ensure the tank has a tight-fitting lid since this species is known to be a skimmer and can jump out of tanks if given the opportunity.

🏡 Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: The Polypterus Senegalus is generally a peaceful and shy species, though it can be somewhat territorial, especially with other bottom dwellers.

• Tankmates:

  • Ideal tankmates include non-aggressive species like tetras, gouramis, cichlids, and catfish.

  • Avoid keeping with smaller fish that may be seen as prey, as the Senegal Bichir is an opportunistic predator and will eat small fish and invertebrates.

  • It’s best to avoid fin-nipping species or overly aggressive fish that may harass the Bichir, as it prefers a calm environment.

🍤 Diet:

• Carnivorous: The Senegal Bichir is a carnivore and thrives on a diet of meat-based foods.

• In Captivity:

  • It will readily eat live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, krill, and small fish.

  • Sinking pellets and nightcrawlers can also be offered as part of its diet.

  • Since it is a bottom dweller, food should be placed in the lower areas of the tank, as the Senegal Bichir hunts near the substrate.

🧑‍🍼 Breeding:

• Breeding in Captivity: Breeding Polypterus Senegalus in captivity is rare, as it requires very specific conditions, including mature fish and ideal water parameters.

  • These fish are egg layers and typically spawn in caves or hidden spaces, similar to other species of Bichirs.

  • The eggs hatch in a few days, and the larvae are initially small and vulnerable, requiring special care.