How difficult is it to keep Congo bichir?

Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.

How large does Congo bichir get?

Congo bichir typically reaches Up to 97 cm TL and 4.4 kg (FishBase) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Congo bichir?

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

What is the typical price for Congo bichir?

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

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Congo bichir

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Polypterus congicus

A large bichir widespread in the Congo basin. Formerly a subspecies of P. endlicheri, it is now a separate species. A predator recorded to 97 cm and 4.4 kg, it needs an extra-large tank for life.

Difficulty

Advanced

Temperature

22〜28℃

Lifespan

Few reliable data

Size

Up to 97 cm TL and 4.4 kg (FishBase)

Diet

Carnivore (fish, prawns, mussels, earthworms)

About

Polypterus congicus is a large bichir widespread in the Congo River basin and also present in Lake Tanganyika (FishBase). Formerly treated as a subspecies of P. endlicheri (P. endlicheri congicus), it is now regarded as a separate species and is traded separately from the West African P. endlicheri; GBIF also lists P. endlicheri congicus as a synonym. It is recorded to 97 cm TL and 4.4 kg. A carnivore of streams, lakes and flood zones, in Lake Tanganyika it occurs mostly at river mouths, deltas and lagoons. Like other bichirs it breathes air at the surface, and young fish have external gills. As it may approach 1 m, lifelong care at home requires an extra-large tank with a wide footprint. Juveniles are sold by Japanese specialist shops as a large bichir.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Size of the Congo bichir

The Congo bichir grows to Up to 97 cm TL and 4.4 kg (FishBase).

Basic Info

Origin

Central Africa (Congo basin, Lake Tanganyika)

Lifespan

Few reliable data

Size

Up to 97 cm TL and 4.4 kg (FishBase)

Temperature

22〜28℃

Diet

Carnivore (fish, prawns, mussels, earthworms)

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 congicus Boulenger, 1898

Synonyms: Polypterus bichir katangae Poll, 1941, Polypterus endlicheri concicus Boulenger, 1898, Polypterus endlicheri congicus Boulenger, 1898

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 large predator approaching 1 m, 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.