Description
Green Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus “Green”)
📌 Basic Info
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Scientific Name: Polypterus senegalus (Green morph)
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Common Name: Green Senegal Bichir / Dinosaur Eel (Green variant)
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Size: 12 – 16 inches (30 – 40 cm)
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Lifespan: 10 – 15 years (with proper care)
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Tank Zone: Mostly bottom, sometimes mid-level at night
🌊 Water Parameters
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TDS: 150 – 300 ppm
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pH: 6.2 – 7.8
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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 greenish-grey body color with darker patterns.
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Hardy and ancient fish with lung-like breathing ability.
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Semi-aggressive predator but generally calm.
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Nocturnal – more active in low light.
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Needs a large tank due to size and growth.
🍽️ Food
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Type: Carnivorous
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Diet: Frozen shrimp, fish fillets, earthworms, bloodworms, sinking carnivore pellets.
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Feeding Frequency: Once daily for adults; juveniles 1–2 times a day.
🛠️ Maintenance
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Tank Size: Minimum 75 gallons for one adult.
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Strong filter with good oxygen but low current.
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Weekly water change: 20–25%.
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Provide hiding caves, driftwood, and plants.
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Tight lid – bichirs can escape by jumping.
👥 Social Behavior
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Minimum Group Size: Can live alone or with other bichirs if tank is large.
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Tank Mates: Larger peaceful/semi-aggressive fish like silver dollars, big cichlids, catfish, arowanas.
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Avoid: Small fish, shrimp, or snails – will be eaten.
✅ Do’s
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Keep them in a large, well-covered tank.
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Provide protein-rich food variety.
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Use dim lighting and hiding spaces.
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Ensure stable, clean water conditions.
❌ Don’ts
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Don’t keep with small community fish (they’ll become prey).
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Don’t keep in small or overcrowded tanks.
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Don’t use only flakes – needs meaty diet.
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Don’t leave tank uncovered – they jump.
⭐ Quick Tips
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Hardy, prehistoric-looking fish → called “Dinosaur Eel”.
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Green variety is rarer and attractive in big predator tanks.
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Best for intermediate to advanced aquarists with large aquariums.
