Mokele-Mbembe Bichir (Polypterus mokelembembe)
Fish in the family Polypteridae. Moderate care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific namePolypterus mokelembembe
FamilyPolypteridae
Also known asDwarf Ornate Bichir
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi-aggressive
DietCarnivore
Adult size13 in
Minimum tank size55 gallons
Water parametersTemp 76-84°F, pH 6.2-7.8, GH 5-18 dGH
Appearance
Compact body with attractive dark blotchy banding over a tan ground, short head, and dorsal finlets; resembles a miniature ornate bichir.
Difficulty and care for the Mokele-Mbembe Bichir
Moderate
Origin and habitat
Central Africa (Congo basin)
Keeper notes
A smaller bichir resembling a dwarf ornate; predatory on small fish and shrimp but peaceful with similarly sized tankmates. Escape artist needing a tight lid.
Log Mokele-Mbembe 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 Mokele-Mbembe Bichir alongside everything else in your reef.
