Bichirs Polypterus species - 4"

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Polypterus delhezi
• Common Name: Tiger Bichir / Armored Bichir / Barred Bichir
• Adult Size: Up to 35 cm (14 inches)
• Life Expectancy: 10–15 years (can live longer with excellent care)
• Habitat: Found in slow-moving rivers and floodplains of the Congo River Basin in Central Africa. Prefers muddy bottoms, dense vegetation, and areas with low light.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 250 liters (65 gallons) for a single adult
• Ideal Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH Range: 6.2–7.8
• Water Hardness: 5–20 dGH
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; predatory but generally peaceful with similar-sized tankmates. Avoid keeping with small fish that fit in its mouth.

Diet (Omnivorous)
Diet should include:

• Meaty foods such as bloodworms, earthworms, shrimp, and small fish
• High-quality sinking carnivore pellets
• Occasional plant matter or algae wafers

Feed primarily at night, as this species is nocturnal.

Appearance
Distinctive Features:

• Long, eel-like body covered in hard, armored scales
• Unique yellowish-green body with dark vertical bars (“tiger” stripes)
• Multiple dorsal finlets along the back
• Large, gaping mouth and sharp sense of smell
• Capable of breathing atmospheric air with a modified swim bladder