Polypterus ornatipinnis Care Guide

Polypterus ornatipinnis is the largest of the upper-jaw bichirs, an air-breathing Congo predator with bold black-and-yellow patterning.

Overview

Polypterus ornatipinnis, the ornate bichir, was described by Boulenger in 1902. It is the largest of the "upper jaw bichirs" and is found in Lake Tanganyika and the Congo River basin in Central and East Africa, including the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Tanzania.

Taxonomy

Family: Polypteridae
Genus: Polypterus
Scientific name: Polypterus ornatipinnis
Described by: Boulenger, 1902
Common name: Ornate Bichir

Habitat

According to Wikipedia, the species occurs in Lake Tanganyika and the Congo basin. It possesses a primitive pair of lungs that allow it to breathe air in hypoxic waters and even survive out of water for extended periods. Its body bears black and yellow patterning and carries 9 to 11 dorsal spines.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 600 L
Maximum size: up to 60 cm (24 in)
Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
pH: 6.5-7.8
GH: 5-20 °dGH
Lifespan: 15-25 years
A tight, secured lid is essential as bichirs jump

Diet

Polypterus ornatipinnis is a carnivore. Like other bichirs it hunts by smell and takes meaty foods such as fish, worms and shrimp in the aquarium.

Compatibility

The species is semi-aggressive and bottom-dwelling. It suits robust tankmates such as larger catfish and big cichlids, but smaller fish are at risk of being eaten.

Breeding

Breeding is rated advanced and is uncommon in home aquaria.

Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern.