Senegal Bichir
Polypterus senegalus
Description
The Senegal Bichir is a fascinating and ancient species of fish known for its primitive, eel-like body and armored appearance. This fish has a long, cylindrical body with thick, bony plates running along its back, giving it a prehistoric look. The body coloration is typically a mix of olive-green, brown, or gray, with a pattern of darker spots or blotches along the sides. The Senegal Bichir has large, pectoral fins that are adapted to help it “walk” along the substrate, giving it a distinct, almost amphibious movement. It also has a long, pointed tail, and like all bichirs, it possesses a series of lobed fins and can breathe air through a specialized lung, allowing it to survive in low-oxygen environments.
Habitat Origin
Native to the slow-moving rivers, swamps, and lakes of West Africa, particularly in Senegal, Guinea, and other parts of the Congo Basin. These fish thrive in murky, low-oxygen waters with dense vegetation and plenty of hiding spots. They are found in areas where the water may be turbid, and they have evolved to navigate through these environments with their unique, lobed fins and ability to gulp air from the surface.
Aquarium
Ideal Number in Aquarium: Typically kept alone or with large, peaceful tankmates, as they are territorial and can be aggressive towards smaller fish.
Favorite Food
Senegal Bichirs are carnivorous and will eat a variety of live or frozen foods, including feeder fish, shrimp, earthworms, and other small invertebrates. They can also accept sinking pellets or meaty preparations designed for carnivorous fish. Their feeding behavior is active, and they tend to hunt in the evenings, using their sharp sense of smell to detect food. A varied diet, rich in protein, will ensure they thrive and grow properly.
Behavior:
Senegal Bichirs are solitary and semi-territorial fish, often keeping to themselves unless they are hungry or during feeding time. They are nocturnal, spending most of the day resting in crevices or hiding among plants and rocks. As they grow, they can become more territorial, especially when they feel crowded. While they are not aggressive towards tankmates, they may become a threat to smaller fish, which could fit into their mouths, as they are predatory by nature. They are generally calm but can become more active and hunting-oriented during the night. Their lobed pectoral fins allow them to “walk” across the substrate, which is a unique characteristic of this species.
Special Care:
Senegal Bichirs thrive in tanks with plenty of hiding spots, such as rocks, driftwood, and dense plants. They prefer soft substrates like sand, which is gentle on their sensitive undersides and allows them to burrow. A tight-fitting lid is important, as they can leap out of the water if startled. While they are capable of breathing air, it’s important to ensure the tank is properly oxygenated. Regular water changes and good filtration are essential for maintaining water quality, as bichirs can be sensitive to poor water conditions
Compatibility with Other Fish:
Senegal Bichirs are generally peaceful but should be kept with other large, peaceful fish that will not be viewed as food. They are not suitable for tanks with small or slow-moving fish, as they will likely attempt to eat them. Ideal tankmates include large tetras, cichlids, and other robust species that can tolerate the bichir’s predatory behavior. Avoid keeping them with small fish or species that are likely to nip at their fins.
Breeding Setup
A separate breeding tank is recommended for Senegal Bichirs to control water quality and protect the eggs, as adults may consume them. For a breeding pair, use a 75-gallon tank (285 liters) at minimum. A 150-gallon tank (570 liters) is ideal for multiple pairs. Maintain pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 26–30°C (79–86°F), and hardness 5–12 dGH. A canister or sump filter is essential due to the species’ waste output, and the intake should be covered. Use fine sand or gravel as substrate, with driftwood and rocks for cover. Low to moderate lighting is best, set to a 12-hour cycle.
Conditioning for Breeding
Condition Senegal Bichirs with a protein-rich, varied diet that includes live prey (e.g., feeder fish, worms, crickets), frozen options (e.g., bloodworms, shrimp, mussels), and high-quality carnivore pellets. Weekly 30–50% water changes help maintain health. To simulate spawning season, conduct a larger 50% water change and slightly increase the temperature to 30°C (86°F) to mimic rainy-season conditions that may trigger breeding.
Spawning Process
After proper conditioning, males will court females by displaying their fins and following them closely. Spawning typically occurs after water changes or environmental shifts, often in the early morning. Eggs are laid on flat surfaces or decorations and are immediately fertilized by the male. Each session may result in 100–300 sticky eggs. After spawning, remove the parents to prevent predation on the eggs or fry.
Fry Care
Senegal Bichir eggs hatch within 3–5 days, depending on temperature. Initially, fry feed on their yolk sacs, then transition to infusoria or liquid fry food, followed by baby brine shrimp, microworms, or crushed pellets. Maintain clean water conditions through 10–20% water changes daily or every other day. Keep the temperature stable between 26–30°C, and avoid overfeeding to prevent waste buildup and water quality deterioration.
Key Considerations
Senegal Bichirs become sexually mature at 2–3 years. Males are typically smaller and may have brighter colors or elongated fins, while females are larger and rounder when gravid. Avoid sudden parameter changes or aggressive tank mates, as stress and poor water quality can disrupt breeding. Stable conditions, a secure environment, and minimal disturbances are key to successful breeding and fry survival.