Bichir Care Guide: Ancient Predators With Prehistoric Charm

Bichirs (Polypterus spp.) are living fossils that have remained virtually unchanged for over 60 million years. With their armoured scales, multiple dorsal finlets and the ability to breathe atmospheric air, these prehistoric predators offer a fishkeeping experience like no other. This bichir care guide from Gensou Aquascaping at 5 Everton Park covers the essentials for keeping these remarkable fish in Singapore. This guide sits inside our broader Tropical Fish Species Master Index reference.

Species Overview

The genus Polypterus contains around 14 species, all native to freshwater habitats across Africa. Popular aquarium species include the Senegal bichir (P. senegalus) at 25–30 cm, the ornate bichir (P. ornatipinnis) at 40–50 cm and the endlicheri bichir (P. endlicheri) reaching up to 60 cm. They can live 15–20 years in captivity. Their unique anatomy includes ganoid scales (hard, diamond-shaped armour), paired lung-like swim bladders and pectoral fins they use to “walk” along the substrate.

Tank Requirements

Tank size depends on species. Senegal bichirs need a minimum of 300 litres, while larger species like endlicheri require 500 litres or more. A long, wide tank footprint is more important than height — bichirs are bottom-dwellers. Use a fine sand substrate that will not scratch their bellies, and provide PVC pipes, driftwood tunnels and caves for hiding during the day. A secure, weighted lid is absolutely essential — bichirs are expert escape artists that will find any gap.

Water Parameters

Maintain temperature between 24 °C and 28 °C, pH 6.5–7.5, and moderate hardness (GH 5–15 dGH). They tolerate a range of conditions but are sensitive to poor water quality. Strong filtration is needed — canister filters rated for at least 1.5 times the tank volume work well. Bichirs periodically surface to gulp air, so ensure there is always a gap between the water surface and the lid.

Diet and Feeding

Bichirs are predators with poor eyesight that hunt by smell. Offer meaty foods: frozen prawns, fish fillets (tilapia, pangasius), earthworms, frozen bloodworms (for juveniles), live feeder shrimp and quality carnivore pellets like Hikari Massivore. Feed juveniles daily; adults can be fed every two to three days. Drop food near the bichir at night when they are most active, as they are primarily nocturnal hunters.

Tank Mates

Bichirs are peaceful towards fish too large to swallow but will eat anything that fits in their mouth. Suitable tank mates include larger cichlids, large barbs (tinfoil barbs), large gouramis, synodontis catfish and other bichir species of similar size. Avoid small fish, shrimp or anything under half the bichir’s body length. Multiple bichirs of similar size generally coexist peacefully.

Health Considerations

Bichirs are hardy but susceptible to external parasites, particularly after purchase. Quarantine new specimens and watch for flashing (rubbing against objects), which may indicate gill flukes or skin parasites. Treat with praziquantel for flukes. Their primitive immune system makes them resistant to many diseases that affect other fish, but they are sensitive to salt — avoid using aquarium salt in a bichir tank.

Singapore-Specific Tips

Singapore’s warm climate is ideal for bichirs, eliminating the need for heaters in most setups. Several species are regularly available at local fish shops, with Senegal bichirs being the most common and affordable. Larger species like endlicheri command higher prices but are occasionally available. Feeder prawns can be sourced cheaply from wet markets — rinse thoroughly before feeding.

Conclusion

Keeping bichirs is like housing a piece of evolutionary history in your living room. Their ancient appearance, unique behaviours and impressive longevity make them rewarding pets for dedicated keepers. Visit Gensou Aquascaping at 5 Everton Park for expert advice on your bichir setup.