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Polypterus senegalus

Senegal Bichir, Dinosaur Bichir, Dinosaur Eel, Reedfish
Temperature
22–29°C
pH
6–7
dGH
6–17 ppm
Size
30 cm
Tank
300 L
Polypterus senegalus is a unique freshwater fish known for its prehistoric appearance and lung-like structures that allow them to breathe atmospheric oxygen. They are robust, nocturnal, and prefer a tank with plenty of hiding spots such as caves and plants. They are carnivorous and should be fed a diet rich in protein with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, prawns, and small fish. They possess a primitive pair of lungs that enable them to survive in low-oxygen waters, leading to their resilience in captivity.

Water parameters

Hardness
6–17 ppm
Temperature
22–29°C
pH
6–7

Tank & size

Fish size
30 cm
Tank length
120 cm
Tank volume
300 L

Distribution

Western Africa