Edit Polypterus retropinnis
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Name
Scientific name
Polypterus retropinnis
Described by
Not recorded
Family
Polypteridae
Common names
West African Bichir
Photograph credits
Not recorded
Summary
The West African bichir, Polypterus retropinnis, is a nocturnal bichir widely distributed throughout Western Africa. It inhabits marshes, s…
Size and aquarium
Maximum size
350mm, standard length
Aquarium size
Minimum length 120 cm, Minimum depth 45 cm, Minimum height 38 cm
Water
Water conditions
Temperature 25–28°C, pH 6–8
Hardness
5–25dGH
Conductivity
Not recorded
Behaviour
Temperament
Not recorded
Social needs
Not recorded
Community suitability
Not recorded
Where it lives
Countries, regions, rivers and lakes
DR Congo, Gabon, Republic of the Congo
Writing
Etymology
Not written yet
Distribution
Widely distributed throughout Western Africa. It has been recorded in Nigeria, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Togo, Gabon…
Habitat
Widely distributed throughout Western Africa. It has been recorded in Nigeria, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Togo, Gabon…
Aquarium size
120 ∗ 45 ∗ 38 cm - ~205 litres).
Maintenance
Floor space is more important than depth with this species. A soft substrate with pieces of driftwood and smooth rocks arranged to form hiding places is ideal.…
Water conditions
Temperature: 25 – 28 °C pH: 6.0-8.0 Hardness: 5-25°H
Diet
P. retropinnis is carnivorous by nature and will not usually accept dried foods in aquaria, though some specimens have been known to take pelleted varieties. T…
Behaviour and compatibility
Not to be trusted with tankmates it can fit in its mouth but is relatively peaceful otherwise. Suitable tankmates include other Polypterus species, Synodontis,…
Sexual dimorphism
The male has a thicker anal fin than the female.
Reproduction
Not recorded in captivity but is thought to breed in a similar way to other Polypterus species. This species breeds during the rainy season in nature and chang…
Notes
Also known as the Speckled Bichir, this is an incredibly hardy, nocturnal species with very poor vision. P. retropinnis relies on its excellent sense of smell …
References
References
No references