Polypterus senegalus
The Senegal bichir is a primitive polypterid with lobed pectoral fins and a cylindrical body—often the first “dinosaur fish” keepers try. Nocturnal and bottom-oriented; may eat fish small enough to swallow. Provide a soft sand substrate for foraging, heavy cover, and a secure lid—strong escape artists. Hardy within broad tropical parameters but not a nano fish; plan for adult length over 25 cm in good conditions.
Frozen bloodworm, shrimp, mussel; sinking carnivore pellets; occasional feeder fish only from trusted disease-free sources.
Frequency: 1× daily
Feed after lights dim; avoid fatty mammal meat—use fish-based foods.
Native Region: Africa (widespread—Nile to West African drainages)
Slow rivers, floodplains, and swamps with vegetation and soft substrate.
Tight-fitting lid; no gaps around equipment cords; PVC tubes and driftwood hides.
Activity Level: Moderate
Surface-breathes occasionally; can cohabit with similar-sized robust fish.
Difficulty: Difficult
Type: Egg scatterer
Sexual Dimorphism: Mature males often have broader anal fin; difficult to sex young.
Spawning very rare in aquaria; egg scatterer in flood habitats in nature.
Substrate: Sand
Plant Safe: No
Floating plants diffuse light; avoid sharp gravel that damages barbels.
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