(DA) Albino Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus albino) [ ≈ 3 inches]

Description

Albino Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus albino)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Polypterus senegalus (Albino variant)

• Common Name: Albino Senegal Bichir / Albino Dinosaur Eel

• Size: 12 – 16 inches (30 – 40 cm)

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

• Tank Zone: Bottom dweller (sometimes swims 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

• Striking white/cream body with red eyes (albino trait).

• Known as a “living fossil” – has primitive lungs and can breathe air.

• Hardy, predatory, and nocturnal.

• Grows large → requires a big tank.

• Semi-aggressive but usually slow and calm.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Carnivorous predator.

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

• Feeding Frequency: Once daily (small portions). Juveniles need more frequent feeding.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 75 gallons for a single adult.

• Strong filtration with low current.

• Provide hiding spots (driftwood, caves, plants).

• Secure lid – bichirs can jump out of tanks.

• Weekly water change: 20–25%.

👥 Social Behavior

• Minimum Group Size: Can be kept singly or in groups if tank is large.

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

• Avoid: Small fish (guppies, tetras, shrimps) → will be eaten.

✅ Do’s

• Keep in a large, covered aquarium.

• Offer a protein-rich diet.

• Provide dim lighting and hiding places.

• Maintain stable, clean water conditions.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t keep with small fish or invertebrates (they’re food).

• Don’t leave tank uncovered (they jump).

• Don’t keep in overcrowded tanks.

• Don’t rely only on flakes → needs meaty food.

⭐ Quick Tips

• Ancient “dinosaur” fish, hardy and long-lived.

• Beautiful albino coloration makes it highly sought after.

• Perfect for experienced aquarists with large predator tanks.