Ornate Polypterus (Bichir)

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Latin Name: Polypterus ornatipinnis
Common Name(s): Ornate Polypterus (Bichir)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Temperament: Nocturnal Predator
pH: 7.0 - 7.5
Adult Full Size: 30"
Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallons
Plant Safe: Only large plants (Swords / Anubias / Java Fern)
Foods: Krill, Silversides, Sinking carnivore pellets, other meaty foods.

Description: This snake-like fish originates from various rivers in central Africa. Polypterus are considered ‘living fossils’ (prehistoric creatures that have remained unchanged), and a bridge between fish and amphibians (an intermediary step towards growing limbs). Polypterus ornatipinnis is a nocturnal predator, and should not be kept with smaller fish. It needs a lot of floor space as well as a very secure tight-fitted lid. Soft (sandy) substrate, driftwood and rocky hiding places are also recommended. It is a very hardy fish that is best kept with other ‘peaceful predators’ like other Polypterus, Datnoids, Synodontis, Knife fish, Arowanas etc.