Quick Care Details (Table)
| Livestock Characteristics | Value |
|---|---|
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Temperament | Semi-Agressive |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| Maximum Size | 20 Inches |
| Minimum Tank Size | 75 Gallons |
| Plant Safe | Yes |
| Temperature Range | 75-82F |
| PH Range | 6.5-7.5 |
| KH Range | 4-8 Degrees |
| GH Range | 8-12 Degrees |
Species Specific Categories
Helpful Video
Care Details
Filtration: Use a quality filtration system capable of handling the bioload and providing mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. Bichirs produce waste, so an efficient filter is necessary to maintain good water quality.
Substrate: Choose a substrate that is gentle on the bichir's delicate belly, such as sand or rounded gravel. Avoid using sharp or abrasive substrates to prevent potential injuries.
Hiding spots: Provide ample hiding places, such as caves, PVC pipes, or driftwood, to offer security and shelter for the bichirs. They appreciate having hiding spots to retreat to and feel safe.
Lighting: Bichirs do not have specific lighting requirements and are generally not sensitive to light intensity. It is recommended to provide a subdued or dim lighting setup. This can be achieved using low to moderate intensity aquarium lights or by utilizing floating plants or decorations to provide shaded areas in the tank. Avoid excessively bright or intense lighting, as it can cause stress to the bichirs polypterus.
Water Flow: Bichirs prefer slow to moderate water flow in their tanks. They are adapted to sluggish or stagnant waters in their natural habitats. Excessive water flow can make swimming difficult for bichirs and may cause stress. To achieve an appropriate water flow, use a filter with adjustable flow settings or create baffles or barriers to disperse and reduce the water current.
Oxygenation: Bichirs have accessory breathing organs called gills, but they also possess lungs and can breathe atmospheric air. It is essential to maintain adequate oxygenation in the aquarium. Gentle surface agitation, such as using an air stone or a low-flow air pump, can help ensure sufficient oxygen exchange. However, avoid strong surface agitation that creates excessive water movement.
Water Changes and Maintenance: During water changes, it is advisable to maintain a similar water flow and lighting conditions to minimize stress for the bichirs. When performing maintenance tasks like vacuuming the substrate or cleaning the filter, try to do so with gentle movements to avoid startling or disturbing the fish.
Temperament and Behavior
- Bichirs are generally calm and peaceful fish. They are not typically aggressive towards tank mates or other bichirs polypterus.
- They have a slow and deliberate swimming style, often moving along the bottom of the tank.
- Bichirs are predatory by nature and may attempt to eat tank mates that are small enough to fit in their mouths. Therefore, it's important to choose compatible tank mates that are of similar size or too large to be considered prey.
- In community fish tanks, bichirs may display territorial behavior, particularly around feeding time or when establishing their preferred hiding spots. Providing ample hiding places and adequate space can help reduce potential territorial conflicts.
- Some bichir species, such as the Senegal Bichir, are known to be more active and curious compared to others, while some species may be more reclusive.
- Bichirs have poor eyesight but possess a keen sense of smell and can use their barbels to locate food in the substrate.
- They may show some aggression towards conspecifics during breeding season or if they feel overcrowded in the tank. Providing sufficient space and appropriate tank mates can help minimize such behavior.
Diet and Nutrition
- Bichirs are carnivorous fish and require a diet primarily composed of meaty foods.
- Offer a variety of live and frozen foods to ensure a balanced diet. Some suitable options include bloodworms, brine shrimp, blackworms, earthworms, small feeder fish (e.g., guppies), and chopped pieces of shrimp or fish.
- Feed them appropriately sized prey items. The size of the food should be smaller than the width of the bichir's mouth to avoid choking hazards.
- Consider using feeding tongs or tweezers to present food directly to the bichir, especially if they are slow to recognize food in the water column.
- Some bichirs fish may readily accept high-quality, sinking pellets or sticks designed for carnivorous fish. These can be offered as a staple food or in addition to live/frozen foods.
- Ensure that the diet is nutritionally balanced and includes a variety of protein sources. This helps provide essential amino acids and nutrients necessary for their health and growth.
- Avoid feeding bichirs exclusively with feeder fish, as this can lead to nutritional deficiencies over time. It's crucial to offer a varied diet to ensure they receive a wide range of nutrients.
- Feed adult bichirs fish 2-3 times a week, adjusting the frequency based on their appetite and condition. Juvenile bichirs may require more frequent feedings.
- Monitor the bichir's feeding behavior and adjust the quantity of food accordingly. Feed them an amount that they can consume within 5-10 minutes, removing any uneaten food to maintain good water quality.
- Take into account the individual preferences and feeding habits of your specific bichir. Some bichirs may be more active feeders, while others may require a slower, more deliberate approach to feeding.
Tank Parameters
pH: Polypterus bichir prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions. The pH range for most bichir is around 6.5-7.5. It's important to note that sudden and extreme fluctuations in pH should be avoided, as they can stress the fish.
KH (Carbonate Hardness): Bichirs fish are generally adaptable to a range of KH levels. A KH of 4-8 dKH (71-143 ppm) is suitable for most species. KH helps stabilize pH and provides buffering capacity.
GH (General Hardness): Bichirs fish prefer moderately hard water. A GH of 8-12 dGH (143-214 ppm) is typically recommended. GH represents the overall mineral content in the freshwater, including calcium and magnesium.
Ammonia and Nitrite: Bichirs fish are sensitive to ammonia and nitrite, so it's crucial to maintain low levels of these toxic substances. Both ammonia and nitrite should ideally be at 0 ppm. Regular monitoring of freshwater parameters and ensuring a well-established biological filtration system are important for keeping ammonia and nitrite in check.
Nitrate: Nitrate is a byproduct of the nitrogen cycle in aquariums. Bichirs fish can tolerate low to moderate levels of nitrate. However, it's recommended to keep nitrate levels below 40 ppm and perform regular freshwater changes to maintain good water quality.
Temperature: As mentioned earlier, the temperature range for bichirs fish is typically 75-82°F (24-28°C). It's important to maintain a stable temperature within this range to ensure the well-being of bichirs.
History, Popularity, History and Species Variety Details
The History And Popularity of The Bichir
Ancient Origins: The Bichir's ancestors appeared on Earth over 96 million years ago during the Cretaceous period. These ancient fish inhabited the ancient freshwater systems and river basins of the African continent. Their unique physical characteristics and ability to survive in various conditions made them resilient and adaptive, allowing them to endure through countless geological and environmental changes.
Survivors of Time: Over millions of years, the Bichir have witnessed dramatic shifts in the Earth's landscape, including the separation of continents and the formation of new river systems. Throughout these geological changes, the Bichir managed to persist and adapt to different habitats, ranging from dense swamps to shallow waters and backwaters.
Living Fossil: The Bichir's survival through countless generations has earned it the title of a "living fossil." This term is often used for fish that have remained relatively unchanged over millions of years and offer valuable insights into the evolutionary history of life on Earth.
Modern-day Bichir: Today, the Bichir Polypterus can be found in various parts of Africa, particularly in the Nile River basin and several other river systems, including the Senegal River. They have also been introduced to other regions due to their popularity in the aquarium trade.
Aquarium Popularity: The Bichir's unique appearance, ancient lineage, and hardiness have made it a sought-after fish in the aquarium hobby. Hobbyists are intrigued by its prehistoric features, such as its elongated body, armored scales, and lobed fins. Bichirs have become popular among advanced aquarists who enjoy keeping and observing unique and ancient fish species.
Conservation Status: While the Bichir is considered a hardy and adaptable species, its natural habitats in Africa face numerous threats, including habitat destruction, pollution, and overfishing. In some regions, Bichirs are harvested for the aquarium trade, which can impact wild populations. Proper conservation efforts are essential to protect the Bichir and its natural environment for future generations.
Natural Habitat for the Bichir Polypterus
- Rivers and River Basins: The Senegal Bichir is native to the Senegal River basin, which includes the Senegal River and its surrounding tributaries. These river systems are characterized by slow to moderate water flow and varying depths, providing diverse habitats for the fish.
- Shallow Waters and Backwaters: Bichirs are well-adapted to life in shallow waters and backwaters, where they can be found among submerged vegetation, rocks, and fallen tree branches. These areas offer them shelter, hunting grounds, and protection from predators.
- Swamps and Floodplains: The Senegal Bichir is also known to inhabit swamps and floodplains that are seasonally flooded. During the rainy season, the water levels rise, creating vast areas of flooded land where Bichirs can thrive.
- Vegetation and Hiding Spots: Bichirs are typically associated with aquatic vegetation, such as reeds and submerged plants. These plants offer them hiding spots and serve as hunting grounds for smaller fish and invertebrates.
- Muddy and Silty Bottoms: In their natural habitat, Bichirs often explore and forage in muddy and silty substrates, using their keen sense of smell and electroreception to detect prey.
- Adaptations to Low Oxygen Environments: Bichirs have a specialized respiratory system that allows them to breathe atmospheric air using a modified swim bladder, in addition to gills. This adaptation allows them to survive in oxygen-deprived or stagnant freshwaters.
- Nocturnal Behavior: Bichirs are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night. During the day, they tend to rest and seek shelter among the vegetation or in crevices.
Classification of Polypterus
- Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus): The Senegal Bichir is one of the most popular and readily available species. It has a sleek, elongated body with a distinctive row of bony plates along its sides. It usually displays a mix of brown and green coloration, providing effective camouflage in their natural habitat.
- Ornate Bichir (Polypterus ornatipinnis): The Ornate Bichir is known for its striking appearance. It features intricate patterns of black spots and lines on a light brown or grayish background. Its pectoral fins are elongated, resembling delicate feathers.
- Delhezi Bichir (Polypterus delhezi): The Delhezi Bichir is a visually striking fish with a black and yellow or black and white marbled pattern. Its body is adorned with dark vertical bars and spots, making it an eye-catching addition to any aquarium.
- Lapradei Bichir (Polypterus lapradei): The Lapradei Bichir is one of the largest species of bichirs. It has a robust body and can grow up to 24-28 inches (60-70 cm) in length. Its coloration is typically a mix of brown, green, and black, providing excellent camouflage in their natural habitat.
- Reedfish or Ropefish (Erpetoichthys calabaricus): While not technically a bichir, the Reedfish or Ropefish is common grouped with bichirs due to its similar appearance and habits. It has a long, eel-like body with a series of dorsal finlets along its back. It is known for its ability to move both in water and on land using its pectoral fins.
Male gender vs Female gender of The Polypterus Senegalus (Sexual Dimorphism)
- Size: In some fish, males tend to grow slightly larger than females. However, the difference in size may not be significant, and it's not a reliable method for determining gender alone.
- Body shape: Males may have a slightly slimmer or more streamlined body shape compared to females. Females can appear more rounded or have a fuller body, particularly when they are carrying eggs.
- Fin shape: Male bichirs may exhibit more elongated or pointed dorsal tubular and anal fins compared to females. These fin extensions are often more pronounced during breeding periods.
- Papillary organs: In mature male bichirs, small protuberances known as papillary organs may be visible near the vent area, which is absent in females. These organs are used during courtship and mating.
- Behavior: During breeding periods, male bichirs may become more territorial and display courtship behaviors, such as chasing and displaying fin extensions, to attract females.
Breeding The Polypterus Bichir species
- Tank setup: Prepare a separate breeding tank or a sectioned area within the main tank for breeding. The tank should have suitable freshwater conditions, including appropriate temperature, pH, and water quality parameters for the specific species of bichir you are breeding.
- Conditioning: Before initiating the breeding process, ensure that the breeding pair of bichirs are in optimal health and condition. Provide them with a varied and nutritious diet to promote their overall well-being and prepare them for breeding.
- Temperature drop: Lower the water temperature in the breeding tank slightly. A temperature drop of a few degrees Fahrenheit (around 2-3 degrees) can help stimulate breeding behavior in some bichir fish.
- Provide hiding spots: Add suitable spawning sites and hiding spots within the breeding tank, such as caves, PVC pipes, or other structures where the bichirs can lay their eggs or seek shelter.
- Introduce the breeding pair: Place the male and female bichirs into the breeding tank or the designated breeding section. Ensure that the pair is compatible and has ample space to establish territories.
- Observe courtship behavior: Bichirs may exhibit courtship behaviors, such as chasing, displaying fin extensions, and circling each other. These behaviors indicate that the pair is preparing for spawning.
- Spawning: Once courtship behaviors are observed, the female will lay her eggs, and the male will fertilize them. Bichirs are known to lay adhesive eggs, which may stick to various surfaces or objects in the tank.
- Remove adults: After spawning, it's recommended to remove the adult bichirs from the breeding tank to prevent them from consuming the eggs. Place them back into their original tank or separate tanks to avoid any potential aggression or disturbance to the eggs.
- Incubation: Allow the fertilized eggs to incubate undisturbed in the breeding tank. Maintain stable freshwater conditions and ensure adequate oxygenation.
- Egg care: Monitor the eggs closely for signs of fungus or any other issues. If necessary, gently siphon out any affected or unfertilized eggs to maintain water quality.
- Fry care: Once the eggs hatch, the fry will emerge. At this point, provide suitable micro-sized live or frozen foods for the fry, such as infusoria, baby brine shrimp, or finely crushed flakes. Maintain excellent water quality and ensure proper feeding to promote their growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do bichirs require a lid or cover for their aquarium?
Yes, it's recommended to have a secure lid or cover for the aquarium housing bichirs. They are known to be skilled jumpers, and a well-fitted lid helps prevent them from escaping the tank.
Can bichirs be kept in a community tank with other fish?
Bichirs can be kept in a community tank, but it's important to choose compatible tank mates. Avoid small fish or those that can fit in the bichir's mouth, as they may be seen as prey. Peaceful, larger fish that can tolerate similar water conditions are generally the best companions for bichirs.
Are bichirs suitable for beginner aquarists?
Bichirs can be suitable for aquarists with some experience. They have specific care requirements and can grow quite large, so it's important to be familiar with their needs and have a properly set up aquarium before keeping them.
Can bichirs breathe air?
Yes, bichirs have accessory breathing organs called lungs. While they primarily use their gills to extract oxygen from the water, they can also breathe atmospheric air. This allows them to survive in low-oxygen environments or when water conditions are less than ideal.
How long do bichirs live?
With proper care, bichirs can live for many years. The lifespan of bichirs can vary depending on species and individual care, but they can live for 10-15 years or more in captivity.
Do bichirs need live food or can they be fed pellets?
Bichirs are primarily carnivorous and benefit from a varied diet. While they can be fed high-quality sinking pellets designed for carnivorous fish, it's recommended to also offer live or frozen meaty foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, or blackworms to provide a more diverse diet.
Do bichirs shed their skin?
Most bichir species are primarily freshwater fish and are best kept in freshwater aquariums. While some species can tolerate slightly brackish conditions, it's generally recommended to keep bichirs in fully freshwater environments.
Can bichirs be kept in a planted aquarium?
Bichirs can be kept in a planted tank, but it's important to choose plants that can tolerate their specific tank conditions. Hardy, low-light plants like Java fern, Anubias, or Marimo moss balls are often suitable options. However, be aware that bichirs may uproot or damage delicate plants, so it's advisable to secure them properly or consider using artificial plants.
Can bichirs be kept alone, or do they need tank mates?
Bichirs can be kept alone or with tank mates, depending on personal preference. Some bichir keepers choose to keep them as solitary fish to focus on their unique characteristics, while others house them with compatible species for a community setup. It's essential to consider tank size, aggression levels, and the needs of both the bichir and potential tank mates when deciding on tank companions.
How big do bichirs get?
The size of bichirs can vary depending on the species. Some fish, like the Senegal Bichir, can reach lengths of around 16-20 inches (40-50 cm). Other larger species, such as the Lapradei Bichir, may grow up to 24-28 inches (60-70 cm). It's important to research the specific fish you have or plan to keep to understand their growth potential.
Can bichirs breathe underwater without access to atmospheric air?
Yes, bichirs primarily rely on their gills to extract oxygen from the freshwater. While they have the ability to breathe atmospheric air using their lungs, it is not a requirement for their survival. Bichirs will respire primarily through their gills as long as there is sufficient dissolved oxygen in the freshwater.
Are bichirs compatible with invertebrates like shrimp or snails?
Bichirs are predatory fish and may see small invertebrates like shrimp or snails as potential prey. It's generally not recommended to keep bichirs with small or delicate invertebrates that could be consumed. However, larger, more robust fish of shrimp or snails might be able to coexist with bichirs if provided with ample hiding places.
