Senegal Bichir
Polypterus senegalus
What you need to keep a Senegal Bichir
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pH
6–8
Temperature
24–28 °C
Max size
30 cm
Min tank
300 L
Where to buy
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
The Senegal Bichir, often called the Dinosaur Eel, is the most commonly kept and widely available member of the bichir family. Its grey-beige coloration may be understated compared to its larger cousins, but its quirky personality, hardiness, and fascinating prehistoric biology make it an excellent introduction to polypterus keeping. It is one of the smaller bichir species, making it more manageable for hobbyists without pond-scale setups.
Key traits
Care guide
Keeping Senegal Bichir healthy in a South African setup.
Tank setup
A minimum 300L aquarium suits Senegal Bichir. Use robust décor and sight breaks so each fish can hold its own space.
Water parameters
Keep pH 6–8 and 24–28°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers; acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Carnivore. Feed small amounts it clears in a couple of minutes, and vary the diet.
Behaviour
Semi-aggressive. Watch it at feeding time and at lights-out to see its real temperament in your tank.
Tankmates
Choose robust tankmates of similar size, and nothing small enough to be eaten. Add Senegal Bichir last so territories reset.
Breeding
Senegal Bichir can breed in home aquariums with a conditioned pair and stable water.
Community photos
From hobbyists across SA.