Marbled Bichir (Polypterus palmas)
Fish in the family Polypteridae. Moderate care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific namePolypterus palmas
FamilyPolypteridae
Also known asShortfin Bichir, Palmas Bichir
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi-aggressive
DietCarnivore
Adult size12 in
Minimum tank size55 gallons
Water parametersTemp 76-84°F, pH 6.2-8.0, GH 5-20 dGH
Appearance
Olive-brown body with marbled darker mottling, relatively short head, and dorsal finlets; slender for the genus.
Difficulty and care for the Marbled Bichir
Moderate
Origin and habitat
West Africa
Keeper notes
A smaller, manageable bichir; predatory on small fish and shrimp but peaceful with similarly sized tankmates. Good choice where larger bichirs would be too big. Escape artist that needs a tight lid.
Log Marbled Bichir in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Marbled Bichir alongside everything else in your reef.
