How difficult is it to keep West African Bichir?

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

What is the ideal temperature for West African Bichir?

The ideal temperature for West African Bichir is 25〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

What is the lifespan of West African Bichir?

The average lifespan of West African Bichir is 8-15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.

How large does West African Bichir get?

West African Bichir typically reaches Up to 34cm SL as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What is the typical price for West African Bichir?

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

AI-generated image

West African Bichir

Q: What should I feed West African Bichir?

West African Bichir feeds on: Meaty live and frozen foods such as prawns, earthworms, mussel and lancefish. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

Intermediate

Polypterus retropinnis

A small bichir speckled over a dark brown body, from the Ogowe and Congo basins. FishBase records a maximum of 34cm SL. The specific name refers to the rearward position of its dorsal finlets.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Temperature

25〜28℃

Lifespan

8-15 years

Size

Up to 34cm SL

Diet

Meaty live and frozen foods such as prawns, earthworms, mussel and lancefish

About

Polypterus retropinnis is a small polypterid of the Ogowe and Congo basins in Central Africa. FishBase records a maximum of 34cm SL and 7-9 dorsal finlets, and places it close to P. mokelembembe, P. polli and P. palmas. Fine speckling covers a dark brown body, and Seriously Fish notes the alternative name Speckled Bichir. That site gives 25-28C, pH 6.0-8.0, 5-25 dGH and a 120 x 45cm base of about 205 litres. Populations once reported from West Africa belong to the former subspecies P. retropinnis lowei, now regarded as a synonym of P. palmas. Nocturnal and guided by smell, it eats any fish that fits in its mouth, and because the swim bladder works as a lung it must be able to reach the surface. The IUCN rates it Least Concern.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Lifespan of the West African Bichir

The West African Bichir lives 8-15 years.

Size of the West African Bichir

The West African Bichir grows to Up to 34cm SL.

Temperature & humidity for the West African Bichir

The ideal temperature for the West African Bichir is 25〜28℃.

Basic Info

Origin

Central Africa (Ogowe and Congo River basins)

Lifespan

8-15 years

Size

Care Specifications

pH: 6–8
Hardness (GH): 5–25 dGH
Water Temp.: 25–28℃
Min. Tank: 205 L

Semi-aggressiveSolitaryBreeding: Very 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.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Polypterus retropinnis Vaillant, 1899

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.