Nile Bichir (Polypterus bichir)
Fish in the family Polypteridae. Hard care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific namePolypterus bichir
FamilyPolypteridae
Also known asBichir, Lapradei Bichir
Care levelHard
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi-aggressive
DietCarnivore
Adult size28 in
Minimum tank size150 gallons
Water parametersTemp 76-84°F, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 6-20 dGH
Appearance
Large heavy-bodied bichir with numerous dorsal finlets, grey-green coloration, and a broad blunt head; heavily armored.
Difficulty and care for the Nile Bichir
Hard
Origin and habitat
Africa (Nile basin and West Africa)
Keeper notes
The largest bichir species, a true monster that swallows large fish; keep only with robust tankmates too big to eat. Requires a very large tank and a sealed lid against escapes.
Log Nile 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 Nile Bichir alongside everything else in your reef.
