ornate bichir

Care requirements

• Minimum tank 72 × 24 in (180 × 60 cm) or larger.
• Adult size 24 in (600 mm), excluding the tail
• Temperature 77–79°F (25–26°C)
• pH 6.5–7.5
• GH 5–12 dGH
• Ammonia and nitrite 0 ppm

Housing & compatibility

Small tankmates may be swallowed. Provide a secure cover, robust filtration, and adequate turning and swimming space for an adult. Maintain easy surface access for breathing and cover every escape gap.

Leave a clear path to the surface and cover openings around the tank rim.

Diet

Use a suitable complete carnivore pellet when accepted, with appropriate varied frozen or fresh invertebrate foods. Confirm feeding response and avoid relying on feeder fish.

Offer bite-sized Hikari Bio-Pure Frozen Spirulina Mysis Shrimp as part of a varied meaty diet, if accepted.

Species reference photo. Size and markings can vary. Photo by MusikAnimal, CC BY-SA 4.0.