Polypterus palmas Care Guide
Polypterus palmas is a medium West African bichir with marbled flanks, a hardy nocturnal predator that hunts by smell.
Overview
Polypterus palmas, the shortfin or marbled bichir, was described by Ayres in 1850. It is found in freshwater across West Africa, including Ghana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cameroon, Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast and Sierra Leone. Two former subspecies are now considered colour morphs rather than valid taxa.
Taxonomy
- Family: Polypteridae
- Genus: Polypterus
- Scientific name: Polypterus palmas
- Described by: Ayres, 1850
- Common name: Shortfin Bichir
Habitat
According to Wikipedia, the species inhabits freshwater demersal environments and in captivity prefers soft, slightly acidic water with shaded hiding places. It shows bright gold colour, a speckled pattern and dark transverse barring; southern populations are paler with thinner bars while northern ones are deeper gold with thicker barring.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L
- Maximum size: up to about 35 cm (the largest recorded was 35.3 cm); usually around 30 cm
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6.5-7.8
- GH: 5-20 °dGH
- Lifespan: 10-18 years
- A tight, secured lid is essential as bichirs jump
Diet
According to Wikipedia, Polypterus palmas is an opportunistic predator that consumes frozen or live foods such as bloodworms or earthworms and may eat small tankmates. It hunts using its lateral line and sense of smell rather than vision.
Compatibility
The species is semi-aggressive and bottom-dwelling. It can share a tank with robust companions such as larger Synodontis and mid-sized cichlids; tiny fish should be avoided.
Breeding
Breeding is rated advanced and is uncommon in home aquaria.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2021).