gray bichir (Polypterus senegalus)

Family: Polypteridae

gray bichir — a Polypteridae from Africa, calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life. Reaches 52.5–77 cm; small groups recommended. 25–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
25–28 °C
pH
6–8
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
52.5–77 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life
Origin
Africa

Species overview

A Polypteridae species native to Africa: Polypterus senegalus lives bottom-dwelling over warm freshwater streams and lakes. Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life. Adults reach 52.5–77 cm. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

Native biotope

Habitat
Warm freshwater streams and lakes
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate oxygen levels

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine sand and gravel
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones
Plants
Hardy common aquarium plants

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Small groups recommended
Diet
Unfussy omnivore; varied diet keeps condition
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Compatible size and temperament
Avoid keeping with
  • Fin-nippers — Constant stress

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Subtle external differences
Breeding method
Spawns freely; remove parents to save the eggs

Frequently asked questions

Is gray bichir easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life; small groups recommended.

What temperature and water chemistry does gray bichir need?

Aim for 25–28 °C. Stable temperature matching the species origin; 25–28 °C recorded range.

How big does gray bichir get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 52.5–77 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 500 litres.

What does gray bichir eat?

Unfussy omnivore; varied diet keeps condition. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can gray bichir live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Compatible size and temperament and skip Fin-nippers — Constant stress.

Where does gray bichir come from?

Its home waters are Africa — warm freshwater streams and lakes, with still to gentle current.

Does gray bichir jump?

Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.

How does gray bichir breed?

Spawns freely; remove parents to save the eggs. Subtle external differences.