After keeping bichirs for over 15 years, I've learned these prehistoric survivors require specific care that many guides overlook.
These living fossils have remained virtually unchanged for 400 million years. Yet 70% of new bichir owners make critical mistakes in their first month.
I've raised 12 different bichir species and bred three successfully. This guide shares everything I've learned through trial, error, and countless midnight escapes (yes, they're escape artists).
You'll discover exact tank requirements, feeding schedules that actually work, and solutions to problems that took me years to figure out.
What is a Bichir Fish?
Quick Answer: Bichirs are prehistoric ray-finned fish from Africa that breathe air, have armored scales, and can walk on their pectoral fins.
These fish belong to the Polypteridae family, one of the most ancient fish lineages still alive today.
Bichirs possess unique features like spiracles for air breathing and lobed fins that resemble early tetrapod limbs.
⚠️ Important: Bichirs can live 10-20 years and grow up to 30 inches depending on species. Consider this commitment before purchasing.
Wild bichirs inhabit rivers and swamps across Africa, from the Nile to the Congo basin. They've adapted to low-oxygen environments by developing primitive lungs.
In captivity, these fish display fascinating behaviors I've observed over the years. They recognize their owners, hunt strategically, and even show individual personalities.
Types of Bichir Species: Identification and Characteristics
Quick Answer: There are 14 recognized bichir species ranging from 12-inch Senegal bichirs to 30-inch ornate bichirs, with prices from $25 to $300.
Understanding species differences saves money and prevents tank disasters. I learned this after my "small" ornate bichir outgrew three tanks.
Common Aquarium Species
| Species | Max Size | Min Tank | Price Range | Temperament |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Senegal Bichir | 12-14" | 90 gallons | $25-40 | Peaceful |
| Delhezi Bichir | 14-17" | 125 gallons | $40-60 | Semi-aggressive |
| Ornate Bichir | 24-30" | 180 gallons | $60-100 | Aggressive |
| Lapradei Bichir | 24-28" | 180 gallons | $80-150 | Semi-aggressive |
| Endlicheri Bichir | 30" | 240 gallons | $100-300 | Aggressive |
The Senegal bichir remains most popular for beginners. Mine lived 18 years and only reached 13 inches.
Species identification relies on dorsal fin count and body patterns. Senegals have 8-11 dorsal finlets while ornates display distinct yellow and black markings.
Albino varieties exist for several species but cost 50-100% more. My albino Senegal cost $75 compared to $30 for normal coloration.
Bichir Tank Setup: Requirements and Equipment
Quick Answer: Bichirs need minimum 90-gallon tanks with secure lids, sand substrate, strong filtration, and multiple hiding spots to thrive.
Tank size determines success or failure with bichirs. I've rescued dozens from cramped tanks where they developed spinal deformities.
Essential Equipment Checklist
- Tank: 90 gallons minimum for small species, 180+ for large species
- Secure Lid: Weighted or locking - they will escape through 2-inch gaps
- Filtration: Canister rated for 2x tank volume (they're messy eaters)
- Substrate: Fine sand or bare bottom - no gravel they can swallow
- Heater: Adjustable 200-300W depending on tank size
- Decorations: PVC pipes, driftwood caves, smooth rocks
- Lighting: Low to moderate - they prefer dim conditions
My 180-gallon setup cost $1,200 including equipment. Budget at least $500 for a basic 90-gallon setup.
✅ Pro Tip: Use egg crate light diffuser under the lid for extra escape prevention while maintaining gas exchange.
Substrate choice affects health directly. Sand allows natural foraging behavior while preventing impaction from swallowed gravel.
Create multiple territories using decorations. Each bichir needs at least two hiding spots to reduce stress and aggression.
Position the heater horizontally near filter output. This prevents bichirs from resting against it and getting burned - a lesson I learned treating heater burns.
Water Parameters and Maintenance for Bichirs
Quick Answer: Bichirs thrive in 75-82°F water with pH 6.5-7.5, performing weekly 30% water changes and testing parameters twice monthly.
Water quality impacts bichir health more than any other factor. Poor conditions trigger bacterial infections I've treated too many times.
Optimal Water Parameters
- Temperature: 75-82°F (I maintain 78°F year-round)
- pH Level: 6.5-7.5 (stable more important than exact number)
- Ammonia: 0 ppm (test weekly during cycling)
- Nitrite: 0 ppm (deadly even in small amounts)
- Nitrate: Below 40 ppm (I change water at 30 ppm)
- Hardness: 4-15 dGH (they adapt to most hardness levels)
Weekly 30% water changes prevent nitrate buildup from their high-protein diet. I perform changes every Sunday morning without fail.
Match new water temperature within 2 degrees. Temperature shock causes stress that weakens immune systems.
"Stability matters more than perfection. Consistent parameters prevent more problems than chasing ideal numbers."
- MonsterFishKeepers Forum Administrator
Test kits cost $25-40 but save hundreds in medication. API Master Test Kit covers all essential parameters.
During power outages, battery-powered air pumps maintain oxygen levels. Bichirs breathe air but still need dissolved oxygen for gill function.
Bichir Diet and Feeding Guide
Quick Answer: Feed bichirs carnivorous diet of fish, shrimp, and pellets 3-4 times weekly, adjusting portions based on size and growth rate.
Feeding mistakes cause most bichir health problems. Overfeeding leads to bloat while underfeeding stunts growth permanently.
Proven Feeding Schedule
Juveniles (under 8 inches) need daily feeding for proper growth. Adults thrive on 3-4 feedings weekly.
My feeding routine costs $30-40 monthly per adult bichir:
- Monday: Hikari Carnivore Pellets (sinking, $15/bag)
- Wednesday: Raw tilapia chunks ($4/pound at grocery)
- Friday: Frozen krill or mysis shrimp ($8/package)
- Sunday: Live or frozen silversides ($6/dozen)
Portions should equal 3-5% of body weight per feeding. My 14-inch Senegal eats about 2 tablespoons of food per meal.
⏰ Time Saver: Prepare monthly food portions and freeze in ice cube trays for quick defrosting.
Never feed goldfish or rosy reds - they contain thiaminase enzyme that causes vitamin B1 deficiency. I learned this after treating neurological symptoms.
Bichirs often refuse food initially. Try different options and feed at night when they're naturally active.
Bichir Behavior and Temperament
Quick Answer: Bichirs display nocturnal hunting behavior, territorial aggression with similar species, and unique air-breathing surface visits every 15-30 minutes.
Understanding behavior prevents misinterpreting normal activities as problems. New owners often panic seeing bichirs surface for air.
These fish breathe atmospheric air through spiracles. Surface visits every 15-30 minutes are normal, not signs of low oxygen.
Bichirs recognize individual humans after 2-3 months. Mine gather at feeding corner when I approach but hide from strangers.
Aggression increases during feeding and breeding. Separate aggressive individuals before serious injury occurs.
Normal behaviors include bottom resting, slow cruising, and "walking" using pectoral fins. Rapid swimming indicates stress or poor water quality.
Compatible Tank Mates for Bichirs
Quick Answer: Choose tank mates larger than bichir's mouth, avoiding small fish, with compatible species including large cichlids, catfish, and other bichirs in spacious tanks.
Tank mate selection determines peaceful coexistence or expensive meals. My Senegal ate $200 worth of tetras before I learned proper pairing.
As you explore different freshwater fish species, remember bichirs will eat anything that fits in their mouth.
Compatible Species List
| Compatible | Min Size | Tank Size Needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oscar Cichlids | 8 inches | 125+ gallons | Match aggression levels |
| Large Plecos | 10 inches | 125+ gallons | Excellent algae control |
| Silver Dollars | 6 inches | 125+ gallons | Keep in groups of 5+ |
| Larger Barbs | 4 inches | 90+ gallons | Tinfoil barbs work well |
| Other Bichirs | Similar size | 180+ gallons | Provide multiple territories |
Avoid all small fish, shrimp, and snails. They become expensive snacks regardless of hiding spots available.
Multiple bichirs coexist in tanks providing 50+ gallons per specimen. I keep three Senegals in a 240-gallon system successfully.
How to Breed Bichirs in Captivity?
Quick Answer: Breeding requires mature pairs (3+ years), seasonal temperature fluctuations, and specialized fry-rearing setup with success rates below 10% for beginners.
Breeding bichirs challenges even experienced keepers. I attempted breeding for five years before first success with Senegal bichirs.
Sexual maturity occurs at 3-5 years. Males develop thicker anal fins while females grow larger overall.
Trigger spawning through seasonal simulation:
- Cool Period: Lower temperature to 72°F for 2 months
- Warming Phase: Gradually increase to 80°F over 2 weeks
- Flood Simulation: Increase water changes with slightly cooler water
- Diet Enhancement: Feed live foods exclusively during conditioning
Males display elaborate courtship dances, wrapping around females during spawning. Eggs scatter among plants or spawning mops.
Remove parents immediately after spawning - they eat eggs. Eggs hatch in 3-4 days at 78°F.
Fry require infusoria initially, then baby brine shrimp after one week. Survival rates average 20-30% even with perfect conditions.
Common Bichir Health Problems and Solutions
Quick Answer: Common health issues include bacterial infections from poor water quality, parasites from live foods, and injuries from tank mates or decorations.
Early detection saves lives and money. I've treated hundreds of cases and most trace back to preventable causes.
If you notice unusual symptoms, understanding common fish health problems helps identify issues quickly.
Disease Identification and Treatment
Fin Rot: Frayed fins with white edges - treat with API Fin & Body Cure ($12) and improved water quality.
Bacterial infections appear as red streaks or ulcers. Treat with Kanamycin (Seachem Kanaplex, $15) in quarantine tank.
External parasites cause scratching behavior. Salt baths (1 tablespoon per gallon for 10 minutes) provide relief.
- White Spot (Ich): Raise temperature to 86°F for 10 days
- Flukes: Praziquantel treatment ($20) for 5-7 days
- Internal Parasites: Medicated food with Metronidazole
- Injuries: Clean water and Stress Guard ($8) for healing
Quarantine new arrivals for 4 weeks minimum. This $50 investment in a quarantine tank saved my entire collection from velvet disease.
Prevention beats treatment every time. Maintain water quality, quarantine additions, and observe daily for early detection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do bichirs live in captivity?
Bichirs typically live 10-15 years in captivity with proper care. Some specimens reach 20 years with excellent water quality and diet. My oldest Senegal bichir lived 18 years.
Can bichirs breathe out of water?
Bichirs can survive out of water for several hours if kept moist. They breathe air through primitive lungs but still need water for gill function. Never leave them out of water intentionally.
Why is my bichir not eating?
New bichirs often refuse food for 1-2 weeks due to stress. Try different foods like live bloodworms or raw tilapia at night. Check water parameters and temperature - poor conditions suppress appetite.
Do bichirs need air pumps?
Bichirs don't require air pumps if they can surface for air freely. However, adequate filtration provides necessary water movement and dissolved oxygen for gill function. Add air stones during power outages.
Can I keep multiple bichir species together?
Different bichir species can coexist if similar in size and temperament. Provide 50+ gallons per fish and multiple hiding spots. Never mix large aggressive species with smaller peaceful ones.
Final Thoughts on Bichir Care
After 15 years keeping these prehistoric survivors, I can confirm they reward proper care with decades of fascinating behavior.
Success requires understanding their unique needs: spacious tanks, carnivorous diet, and escape-proof setups.
Start with hardy Senegal bichirs before attempting larger species. Build experience gradually rather than jumping into challenging specimens.
Join online communities like MonsterFishKeepers for support when issues arise. The bichir community shares knowledge generously.
Remember these fish represent 400 million years of evolutionary success. Respect their requirements and they'll thrive under your care for years to come.