✅Lifespan
The average bichir lifespan is usually 10-15 years in captivity. However, it’s not out of the question for them to hit 20 years of age if they receive perfect care (and have good genetics).
✅Appearance
The general appearance of bichirs is very ancient and prehistoric. These ray-finned fish have been around for millions of years in one form or another and have undergone very little change over that period of time.
They look kind of like a cross between a snake and an eel, and can grow to be quite long. On the top of their backs they have a series of spiny dorsal fins.
✅The dinosaur bichir (aka Senegal bichir) is one of the most popular types you can find. They’re mostly grey and are usually not as large as most other types of bichirs.
In some instances, they’ll come in a lighter grey (almost white) and even pink and blue. Their bodies are pretty much the classic bichir mold, and they don’t have any particular feature that deviates.
✅Tank Size
The minimum recommended tank size for these fish is around 90 gallons for one. The size of these fish and their activity level means they need ample room so they can swim and feel comfortable.
Bichir are pretty hardy and can survive in a fairly wide range of water parameters. With that being said, there is a recommended window that you should aim for if you want them to be as healthy as possible.
Even though bichir can get their oxygen from the surface you should always perform regular water changes and monitor the levels in your aquarium with a test kit. Being consistent with this will ensure that they live a long healthy life.
One of the nice things about bichir is that they do well with a variety of habitat decorations. You can add plants, driftwood, or caves and they won’t mind one way or the other.
Since bichirs are carnivores you’ll need to ensure that they’re getting enough protein-rich food in their diet to stay healthy. They also eat at night which is another consideration that makes them a bit different from a lot of popular freshwater fishes.
Because of their nocturnal nature, you’ll want to time their feedings appropriately. Nighttime or early in the morning before their lights are off is a good choice. Trying to reprogram a fish away from their natural feeding behavior is an uphill battle. It’s better to work with them!
In terms of their actual diet, this is where bichir care can get a little trickier than other fish. You shouldn’t rely on pellets or flake food and instead need to give them a mix of protein-rich live, dry, and frozen foods. This will provide them with enrichment and activate their predatory instincts which is a lot of fun to watch!
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Note:
We can’t ship Livestock and Live Plants to WA and TAS due to State Restrictions. Kindly check out our DOA and other policies before purchase!!
What to Expect from Us
All Aquatic plants and animals come with a 100% live arrival guarantee!!
Important Notes:
Our goal is to use the fastest delivery service possible, although the shipping fee may be higher, we always want our customers to be satisfied and make sure the livestock arrives at your door safe and healthy.
** DOA POLICY UPDATED AUGUST 02 2023
** Area do not ship.
** Shipping Unit.
** How long is the shipping time for livestock?
** For other shipping.
However, the shrimp and fish you receive may be discolored and the reason of this issue is strong vibration during transportation and they're not be fed during the transport period
To handle this problem we highly recommend to you:
🚩Let the fish relax helps them adapt to any changes in water temperature in the tank. Also prevents pH shock - an imbalance between the water in the shop tank and your tank.
🚩Place the fish bag in a cool, corner, and dark place. Prevent the bag from being bumped, slipped, or dropped. This'll give your new fish a good recovery and acclimatization after a shaky ride from the shop to your home.
🚩Feed your old fish first to distract them, preventing them from bullying your new fish.
🚩Your new aquarium tank should have a pH of zero ammonia and chlorine before adding new fish.
🚩Turn off the lights, reduce the glare in the room, or limit the light entering the aquarium. This will help the new fish not be stressed.