(D) Green Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus “Green”) [≈ 3 inches]

Description

Green Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus “Green”)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Polypterus senegalus (Green morph)

• Common Name: Green Senegal Bichir / Dinosaur Eel (Green variant)

• Size: 12 – 16 inches (30 – 40 cm)

• Lifespan: 10 – 15 years (with proper care)

• Tank Zone: Mostly bottom, sometimes mid-level at night

🌊 Water Parameters

• TDS: 150 – 300 ppm

• pH: 6.2 – 7.8

• Temperature: 24°C – 28°C (75°F – 82°F)

• Water Type: Freshwater, soft to moderately hard

• Hardness: GH 5 – 15, KH 3 – 8

🐟 Characteristics

• Attractive greenish-grey body color with darker patterns.

• Hardy and ancient fish with lung-like breathing ability.

• Semi-aggressive predator but generally calm.

• Nocturnal – more active in low light.

• Needs a large tank due to size and growth.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Carnivorous

• Diet: Frozen shrimp, fish fillets, earthworms, bloodworms, sinking carnivore pellets.

• Feeding Frequency: Once daily for adults; juveniles 1–2 times a day.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 75 gallons for one adult.

• Strong filter with good oxygen but low current.

• Weekly water change: 20–25%.

• Provide hiding caves, driftwood, and plants.

• Tight lid – bichirs can escape by jumping.

👥 Social Behavior

• Minimum Group Size: Can live alone or with other bichirs if tank is large.

• Tank Mates: Larger peaceful/semi-aggressive fish like silver dollars, big cichlids, catfish, arowanas.

• Avoid: Small fish, shrimp, or snails – will be eaten.

✅ Do’s

• Keep them in a large, well-covered tank.

• Provide protein-rich food variety.

• Use dim lighting and hiding spaces.

• Ensure stable, clean water conditions.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t keep with small community fish (they’ll become prey).

• Don’t keep in small or overcrowded tanks.

• Don’t use only flakes – needs meaty diet.

• Don’t leave tank uncovered – they jump.

⭐ Quick Tips

• Hardy, prehistoric-looking fish → called “Dinosaur Eel”.

• Green variety is rarer and attractive in big predator tanks.

• Best for intermediate to advanced aquarists with large aquariums.