The Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus) is one of the most popular freshwater oddball fish thanks to its prehistoric appearance, hardy nature, and peaceful temperament. Often referred to as the Gray Bichir or dinosaur fish, this species is ideal for hobbyists looking for an exotic and low-maintenance predatory tropical fish. With proper care, Senegal Bichirs become long-lived, interactive pets that make a striking addition to any medium or large aquarium setup.

🐟 Quick Facts

• 📏 Adult Size: 12–14 inches

• 🏠 Minimum Tank: 55 gallons

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F

• 💧 pH Range: 6.5–7.8

• 🍖 Diet: Carnivore

• 😴 Temperament: Peaceful, predatory

• 🔒 Lid Required: Yes — known escape artist

🔧 Care Requirements

🏠 Tank Setup

The Senegal Bichir thrives in long aquariums with plenty of bottom space. Use sand or smooth gravel, and provide driftwood, caves, and shaded areas. Their “dinosaur-like” behavior and slow, graceful swimming make them a favorite among keepers of exotic freshwater fish.
A secure, tight-fitting lid is essential, as bichirs are powerful jumpers.

💧 Water Parameters

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• 💧 pH: 6.5–7.8

• 🧪 Hardness: Soft–moderately hard

• 🌬️ Flow: Moderate—avoid strong current

• 🔁 Water Changes: 25–40% weekly

These stable conditions help maintain long-term health in any bichir aquarium setup.

🍖 Diet

As a carnivorous freshwater fish, the Senegal Bichir prefers a protein-rich, sinking diet. Offer a variety of:

• 🥣 Sinking carnivore pellets

• 🧊 Frozen bloodworms, krill, and silversides

• 🪱 Earthworms or nightcrawlers

• 🍤 Freeze-dried shrimp and other meaty foods

Avoid feeder fish due to disease risks and poor nutrition.

🤝 Behavior & Tankmates

Although a gently behaved species, the Senegal Bichir is a predator fish, meaning it will eat anything small enough to fit into its mouth.

✔️ Compatible Tankmates:

• Larger barbs

• Silver dollars

• Congo tetras

• Peaceful medium-to-large cichlids

• Other bichirs

❌ Avoid:

• Small schooling fish (tetras, guppies, rasboras)

• Fin-nippers

• Crayfish

These combinations help create a peaceful and balanced predatory freshwater aquarium.

⭐ Key Notes

• Secure lid required — bichirs are skilled escape artists

• Provide hiding places and low-light areas

• Hardy, beginner-friendly oddball predator

• Excellent for aquarists looking for a unique, long-lived species