Senegal Bichir

The Senegal Bichir has a smooth gray-to-olive appearance, an elongated armored body, and a row of small dorsal finlets. Often sold under the nickname dinosaur fish, it is a freshwater fish with distinctive paddle-like pectoral fins. Watching it investigate the aquarium floor is a large part of its appeal.

Fish details

• Scientific name: Polypterus senegalus
• Size offered: Approximately 8 cm.
• Adult size: Usually about 25–36 cm in aquariums; some individuals can reach around 41 cm.
• Recommended aquarium: Plan for a spacious adult aquarium of approximately 150 gallons with a floor area of at least 152 × 61 cm; larger for multiple large fish.
• Temperature: 75–82°F
• pH: 6.2–7.8

Aquarium setup

Provide fine sand, driftwood, and several smooth hiding places, with open bottom space between them. Dim or shaded areas encourage confident exploration. Keep the aquarium fully cycled, use reliable filtration, and maintain water quality through regular partial changes. Stable conditions matter more than chasing a precise pH value.

Bichirs breathe atmospheric air. Keep the surface accessible, leave an air gap beneath the cover, and secure the lid and all cable or pipe openings to prevent escapes.

Diet and feeding

Feed appropriately sized earthworms and varied thawed aquatic foods, such as shrimp and mussel. Smaller frozen foods suit juveniles. Sinking carnivore pellets may be accepted, but check the individual fish is actually eating them. Offer food near the bottom as lights dim, and prevent quicker tankmates from taking every portion.

Compatibility

A Senegal Bichir may be calm around larger fish while still swallowing small companions. Do not house it with small fish or ornamental shrimp. Choose suitable non-bullying tankmates and similarly sized bichirs, with enough floor space and shelters for each fish.

Ordering information: Sizes are approximate and individual color and markings vary. Contact Las Vegas Exotic Fish to confirm current availability, size, and collection or shipping arrangements.