How difficult is it to keep Guinean bichir?

Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.

How large does Guinean bichir get?

Guinean bichir typically reaches Sources differ widely: 28 cm TL (FishBase) to 72 cm (Wikipedia) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Guinean bichir?

Guinean bichir feeds on: Carnivore (prawns, earthworms, mussels, fish pieces). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Guinean bichir?

The price of Guinean bichir varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

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Guinean bichir

Intermediate

Polypterus ansorgii

A West African bichir from Guinea-Bissau to Nigeria, greenish-brown to black with large dark blotches; the lower jaw may protrude slightly in adults. Known as one of the larger bichirs.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Temperature

22〜28℃

Lifespan

Few reliable data

Size

Sources differ widely: 28 cm TL (FishBase) to 72 cm (Wikipedia)

Diet

Carnivore (prawns, earthworms, mussels, fish pieces)

About

Polypterus ansorgii, the Guinean bichir, was described from the Corubal River in Guinea-Bissau and has since been reported from the Niger basin in Guinea and from Lake Kainji and the Ogun River in Nigeria (FishBase). It is greenish-brown to black with large dark blotches, and the lower jaw may protrude slightly in mature fish; it can be confused with similar bichirs. Sources disagree on maximum size: FishBase currently lists 28 cm TL, while Wikipedia gives 72 cm citing an earlier FishBase version. Hobbyists regard it as a large-growing species, so plan the tank on the assumption it will grow big. Like other bichirs it breathes air at the surface. A nocturnal carnivore, it eats animal foods. It is a standard large bichir in Japanese specialist shops.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Size of the Guinean bichir

The Guinean bichir grows to Sources differ widely: 28 cm TL (FishBase) to 72 cm (Wikipedia).

Basic Info

Origin

West Africa (Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Nigeria)

Lifespan

Few reliable data

Size

Sources differ widely: 28 cm TL (FishBase) to 72 cm (Wikipedia)

Temperature

22〜28℃

Diet

Carnivore (prawns, earthworms, mussels, fish pieces)

Care Guide

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team

The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Polypterus ansorgii Boulenger, 1910

Synonyms: Polypterus ansorgei ansorgei

Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF · FishBase

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listedIUCN LC · Least Concern

Not listed in the CITES Appendices (checked on Species+). Not designated under Japan's Invasive Alien Species Act nor on the invasive species list (as of September 2026). A bichir reported to grow large, so Plan for lifelong housing and never release it into the wild.

Sources: Species+ (CITES) / FishBase

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.