Polypterus

Often referred to as the "dinosaur fish," Polypterus is an unusual and fascinating species in the aquarium industry. Aquarists who enjoy a little something different have come to love this fish because of its unusual qualities and ancient appearance.

The resilient fish Polypterus is distinguished by its long body and unusual fins, and it can survive in a wide range of conditions. It is a fascinating addition to any aquarium because of its unique appearance and fascinating behavior, especially for those who want to incorporate some prehistoric elements into their collection.

Polypterus is an excellent choice for both beginning and seasoned fish keepers due to its easy maintenance, despite its intimidating appearance. This ancient fish can stay vibrant and healthy in your tank if you are aware of its needs and preferences.

Types of polypterus

Polypterus image

There are two subspecies in the genus Erpetoichthys, of which Calamoichthys calabar is the sole representative. Moreover, Polypterus comprises a large number of subspecies.

Polypterus congolese or ornatipinis ((Polypterus Ornatipinnis)

Has the unofficial moniker "Marble Dragon" as well. able to extend up to 40 centimeters in length. extremely combative. lives in hiding, so the only times you can see it are when it’s feeding.

The fish’s color is gray-brown with a mottled white pattern; its belly is a lighter yellowish color, and it has a mesh pattern covering its head.

A 400-liter aquarium is the minimum size. Water parameters: pH 6.0-8.0, dGH 5-25 °C, and temperature 24-27 ºC.

Polypterus Endlicheri or Tiger (Polypterus Endlicheri Bichir)

Enlicheri Polypterus

Enlicheri Polypterus

A reasonably large specimen of the species. spread from Africa’s tropical regions to the Red Sea. Can grow up to 75 centimeters in length. subtly colored. body blue-gray with noticeable stripes. incredibly powerful but sluggish. While it is most active at night in the natural world, it is constantly active in a home aquarium. It can be kept separately in a home aquarium with a minimum capacity of one thousand liters. Feeding is only feasible when using living food.

The ideal water temperature ranges to maintain are 22–27 °C, pH 6.0–8.0, and 5–25 °H.

Polypterus wixii

The biggest polypterus species. an actual giant. reaches a length of 90 centimeters. Home aquariums hardly ever contain it, but some sizable oceanariums do.

Polypterus delhezi

Possibly the most intelligent polypterus. The body has dark stripes and black dots on a gray-olive background. It’s not a big size. The maximum length of the body will be thirty-five centimeters. Ideal for maintaining in an aquarium of a relatively moderate size. energetic at night. stays in a shelter for the entire day.

Water specifications include temperature (24–28 °C), hardness (5-8 °C), and pH (6.0–8.0).

Calabar, or Calamoichthys

Calamoichthys

Eats small fish and fries. The body’s structure allows it to fit through comparatively tiny clefts and indentations. Find out more about Calamoichthys here.

Polypterus senegalus

Phenegalus polypterus

Phenegalus polypterus

Aquarists rightfully regard this species as the most popular. This species will be discussed later in the piece. Large fish from other species as well as members of its own species find Polypterus senegal to be amiable and highly active. Though it has nothing to do with eels, it is occasionally mistaken for one because of its striking resemblance to one on the outside. The length of the body can reach seventy centimeters in natural conditions, but it does not exceed forty centimeters when housed in an aquarium. The color of Polypterus senegal is blue-tinged and silvery. There are albinos. The scales have a tiny, diamond-like form.

Lungfish are one type of polypterus. This feature allows it to move on land and survive for a while without water, though not as quickly as a clarius, for example.

The aquarium’s content of polypterus

Polyptterus

Polypterus is a robust and well-maintained fish. Real fighter. An aquarium of two hundred liters or more is required to accommodate one Senegal polypterus. The cover is necessary! Polyptterus is able to crawl out of the aquarium in addition to jumping out. The fish will not be able to breathe if there is not a layer of air left between the lid and the water’s surface.

Water parameters for polypterus content: pH acidity at seven units; fish is not sensitive to water stiffness; it feels comfortable in both soft and hard water; however, it is best to avoid experimenting with very hard water (pH greater than twenty units). It is necessary to filter. The aquarium’s ecosystem won’t be unnecessary even though the Polypterus isn’t what it is.

Picture of Polyptterus

The most crucial factor is that the nitrogen compounds and phosphates in the aquarium are not present in excessive amounts. The primary issue with fish that novices overlook is this one. Pet illnesses and fatalities are primarily caused by ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and phosphates. Drop tests are something that every responsible aquarist should always have on hand, if only for phosphate and nitrate. Thankfully, they are now reasonably priced, and there are no issues with their acquisition or variety. You can get cheap Vladox tests in offline stores in your city.

Using Tetra EasyBalance won’t be unnecessary because big fish generate phosphates and nitrogenous waste, which is good for their health. Our most important resources are pure water and preparations that eliminate excess nitrogen and phosphorus.

The reputable FF online retailer Aqua Logo Shop sells the aforementioned supplies, gear, and other helpful items for an aquarist. We advise against it!

You can choose any type of décor for your aquarium. Grottoes, castles, and stones work well… Live plants are not required, but they are desirable. Your ancient pet will live for approximately ten years if all the requirements for keeping are satisfied.

Polypterus

Polypterus’s compatibility with other fish. An adult Senegalese polypterus would make good neighbors if the fish were about its size. African acaras, large cichlids, astronotuses, and Indian knives can coexist peacefully with it. A small flock of young polypterus can be kept, but keeping adults in such circumstances is strictly forbidden.

An adult polypterus may occasionally jump on a fish that is larger than it is, but this is not due to ill will or a hunting instinct; rather, it is a result of its poor vision.

Picture of Polypterus

Feeding the polypterus. Predators like Polypterus are common. ancient death machine. It must hunt in order to live comfortably. Live fish is what it should ideally eat. Moreover, bloodworms and worms can be fed to the dinosaur; occasionally, zoophobus is used.

Although slow moving, Polypterus is a predator. It will not immediately reach for food, as if it is hunting prey. It also consumes food more slowly than clarius and eel. We advise feeding fish proven high-quality Tetra food instead of signature dishes.

It should be mentioned that when purchasing any dry food, you should be aware of the manufacture and expiration dates, avoid purchasing food by weight, and store it in a closed environment to prevent the growth of harmful flora.

Experienced aquarium enthusiasts favor Polypterus, also known as the dinosaur eel, because of its unusual appearance and resilient nature. Polypterus is an intriguing and ancient fish species. This fish gives an amazing touch to any tank with its long body, prehistoric appearance, and capacity for air breathing. To thrive and display its full beauty, it needs special care, though, such as a large aquarium, a diet high in protein, and compatible tankmates.

Breeding polypterus at home

Picture of Polypterus

Actually, the majority of polypterus that is sold in markets is captured in the wild. In a home aquarium, polypterus can be difficult but can be bred. The water’s temperature can be lowered to encourage sprouting.

These fish begin mating in the middle of summer and the process lasts for approximately three months. A pair of polypterus circles in a mating dance during courtship, touching and occasionally biting each other. The best thing to do with this fish’s tiny eggs is to add moss to the aquarium. They will be occupied by the tiniest eggs. String, Christmas, or Javanese will do.

To prevent the parents from eating the offspring, the moss and the eggs that have settled on it must be removed as soon as the fish spawn. The fourth day following spawning is when the larvae emerge from the eggs. Brine shrimp nauplii are fed to newborn polypterus. The external gills that are visible on the young will eventually disappear as they grow older. The fry will start hunting at a very young age, even on smaller fry. The fry must be sorted by size and settled separately in order to save the majority of the progeny.

Polypterus image

Polypterus is unquestionably a fantastic fish. Living evidence supporting Darwin’s theory of evolution! Should you choose to keep it at home, your aquarium will become a fragment of a long-lost, entirely different world where fortitude, resilience, and adaptability are paramount!

These and a variety of other fish are always available at the physical supermarkets Aqua Logo and the internet retailer Aqua-Shop. Live goods delivery is offered in Moscow and the surrounding areas.

Characteristic	Description
Scientific Name	Polypterus
Common Name	Bichir
Habitat	Freshwater rivers and lakes in Africa
Size	Up to 30 inches, depending on species
Diet	Carnivorous; eats small fish, insects, and crustaceans
Temperament	Generally peaceful, but can be predatory
Lifespan	10-15 years in captivity
Aquarium Requirements	Large

An interesting species that can add something special to your aquarium is Polypterus. They are distinguished from other fish by their unusual appearance and ancient lineage.

But maintaining Polypterus calls for particular attention. To thrive, they require a large tank, particular water parameters, and a carefully planned diet.

Polypterus can add a captivating and rewarding element to your aquatic environment if you’re prepared to meet their needs.

Video on the topic

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