Polypterus weeksii Care Guide
Polypterus weeksii is a mottled Congo Basin bichir, an air-breathing carnivorous primitive fish that grows to mid-large size.
Overview
Polypterus weeksii, the mottled bichir, was described by Boulenger in 1898. It is found in the central basin of the Congo River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Republic of Congo. The species was named after John Henry Weeks, who collected the type specimen on the upper Congo.
Taxonomy
- Family: Polypteridae
- Genus: Polypterus
- Scientific name: Polypterus weeksii
- Described by: Boulenger, 1898
- Common name: Mottled Bichir
Habitat
According to FishBase, the species inhabits the middle Congo River basin in a tropical freshwater, demersal environment, and is a facultative air-breather. It carries 9 to 11 dorsal finlets, ganoid scales and 7 to 8 blackish bars on the body.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 400 L
- Maximum size: up to about 54 cm TL (FishBase); KB range 35-55 cm
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6.5-7.8
- GH: 5-20 °dGH
- Lifespan: 10-20 years
- A tight, secured lid is essential as bichirs jump
Diet
Polypterus weeksii is a carnivore with a trophic level of about 3.3 according to FishBase. Like other bichirs it hunts by smell and takes meaty foods in the aquarium.
Compatibility
The species is semi-aggressive and bottom-dwelling. It suits robust companions such as larger Synodontis and mid-sized 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 (assessed 2009).