Description
Delhezi Bichir (Polypterus delhezi)
📌 Basic Info
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Scientific Name: Polypterus delhezi
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Common Name: Delhezi Bichir / Armored Bichir / Band Bichir
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Size: 12 – 16 inches (30 – 40 cm)
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Lifespan: 12 – 15 years
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Tank Zone: Bottom (sometimes mid at night)
🌊 Water Parameters
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TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): 150 – 300 ppm
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pH: 6.2 – 7.5
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Temperature: 24°C – 28°C (75°F – 82°F)
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Water Type: Freshwater, soft to moderately hard
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Hardness: GH 5 – 15, KH 3 – 8
🐟 Characteristics
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Attractive bichir with gray-green body and dark vertical bands/spots.
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Hardy, active at night, and primitive → has lungs to breathe atmospheric air.
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Slower growth compared to some larger bichirs.
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Peaceful with large tank mates but predatory towards small fish.
🍽️ Food
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Type: Carnivorous
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Diet: Frozen shrimp, worms, small fish, prawn, sinking carnivore pellets, bloodworms.
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Feeding Frequency: Once daily (juveniles can be fed twice daily).
🛠️ Maintenance
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Tank Size: Minimum 100 gallons (375 L).
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Weekly water change: 20–25%.
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Use sand or fine gravel substrate with caves, driftwood, and rocks for hiding.
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Sponge pre-filters or canister filters recommended (bichirs like gentle flow).
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Tight-fitting lid → strong jumper.
👥 Social Behavior
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Minimum Group Size: Can be kept alone or with other bichirs.
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Tank Mates: Large peaceful/semi-aggressive fish – arowanas, oscars, datnoids, large catfish.
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Avoid: Small/medium fish and shrimp → will be eaten.
✅ Do’s
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Keep in large, well-covered tanks.
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Provide hiding spots and dim lighting.
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Feed protein-rich varied diet.
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Acclimate slowly to new water conditions.
❌ Don’ts
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Don’t keep with small fish.
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Don’t leave aquarium uncovered.
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Don’t overfeed fatty foods like beef heart (can cause health issues).
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Don’t keep in very small tanks.
⭐ Quick Tips
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One of the most beautiful bichirs due to its banded pattern.
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Easier to keep than giant bichirs – good for aquarists starting with bichir species.
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Prehistoric look makes it a centerpiece in large aquariums.
