Longfin Dinosaur Senegal Bichir

Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus)

A living fossil and one of the most unique fish in the aquarium hobby, the Senegal Bichir is a primitive ray-finned fish with an ancient lineage dating back over 100 million years. Native to the rivers, lakes, swamps, and floodplains of tropical Africa and the Nile system, it is instantly recognizable by its elongated, armored body covered in tough ganoid scales and its ability to breathe atmospheric air using a primitive lung-like organ. Often called a “dinosaur fish,” it brings a prehistoric presence to larger aquariums and is highly sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate its fascinating biology and striking appearance.

Key Features

• Maximum Size: Up to 48–70 cm / 19–28 inches in the wild (typically 35–50 cm / 14–20 inches in captivity, depending on subspecies and care).
• Appearance: Long, cylindrical body with a series of rhomboid ganoid scales that give it an armored, prehistoric look. Coloration is generally grayish, beige, or olive with subtle mottling or patterns; juveniles often show more distinct horizontal banding that fades with age. The dorsal fin consists of a row of small spines along much of the back, and it has distinctive paddle-like pectoral fins used for maneuvering and even “walking” on land when the skin is moist. Males develop a thicker anal fin compared to females.
• Fin Details: 8–11 dorsal fin spines; 14–17 anal fin spines. The dorsal fin runs along much of the back in a serrated fashion.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: Minimum 75–125 gallons for juveniles (much larger for adults due to their eventual size and need for swimming space).
• Water Parameters: Tropical to subtropical freshwater; 72–82°F (22–28°C), pH 6.0–8.0, soft to moderately hard. Excellent water quality is important. Provide a sandy or fine-gravel substrate, driftwood, rocks, and caves for hiding. A secure, tight-fitting lid is essential, as they are known to jump or even climb out of tanks. Moderate flow is appreciated.
• Diet: Carnivorous ambush predator — accepts high-quality sinking pellets, frozen foods (bloodworm, brine shrimp, chopped fish or shrimp, earthworms), and occasional live foods. Feed a varied, meaty diet to support growth and health.
• Behavior: Generally peaceful with larger tankmates but predatory toward anything small enough to swallow (including small fish and invertebrates). They are nocturnal or crepuscular and spend much of the day resting or exploring. They can breathe air and will periodically surface. Best kept with robust fish that are too large to be eaten. Excellent for larger species tanks or African biotope setups.

IUCN Status Least Concern (LC)

Add prehistoric charm, armored scales, air-breathing ability, and unique predatory behavior to your larger aquarium with the fascinating Senegal Bichir!