Source: Wikimedia Commons
Ornate Bichir
IntermediatePolypterus ornatipinnis
A large bichir whose grey-brown body is covered in a yellow net-like pattern. It comes from the Congo basin and reaches 60cm. A nocturnal predator, it needs a tank with a large floor area and a tight-fitting lid, and is one of the most popular ancient fishes in the hobby.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
25〜28℃
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
Up to 60cm TL
Diet
Meaty live and frozen foods such as prawns, earthworms, mussel and lancefish
About
Polypterus ornatipinnis is an ancient fish of the family Polypteridae found in the Congo River basin and Lake Tanganyika. FishBase records a maximum of 60cm TL, 9-11 dorsal finlets and upper and lower jaws of about equal length. The yellow net-like pattern over a grey-brown ground is the most ornate in the genus and gives the fish its name. Seriously Fish suggests 25-28C, pH 6.0-8.0, 5-25 dGH and a 180 x 60cm base of about 648 litres. Floor space matters more than depth, and sand with driftwood caves suits it. The swim bladder works as an accessory breathing organ, so the fish must reach the surface for air and will drown if denied it. It is a strong swimmer and an escape artist, so a tight lid is essential. Nocturnal and weak-sighted, it hunts by smell and treats any fish that fits in its mouth as food. The IUCN lists it as Least Concern and it is not covered by CITES.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Ornate Bichir
The Ornate Bichir lives 10-15 years.
Size of the Ornate Bichir
The Ornate Bichir grows to Up to 60cm TL.
Temperature & humidity for the Ornate Bichir
The ideal temperature for the Ornate Bichir is 25〜28℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Africa (Congo River basin and Lake Tanganyika)
Lifespan
10-15 years
Care Specifications
- pH
- 6–8
- Hardness (GH)
- 5–25 dGH
- Water Temp.
- 25–28℃
- Min. Tank
- 648 L
Semi-aggressiveSolitaryBreeding: Hard
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
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.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Polypterus ornatipinnis Boulenger, 1902
Authority databases: FishBase
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listedIUCN LC · Least Concern
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Ornate Bichir Listings
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