Bichirs - Polypterus
You've probably seen these oddball fish in some of the local fish stores you've visited!
You're probably wondering why they have such a prehistoric look?
Bichirs have existed since the Jurassic period and existed alongside many of the now extinct species of that era, including dinosaurs (hence their name, Dinosaur Fish). They have a lung that also simultaneously functions as a swim bladder, giving them the ability to survive for an extended period of time outside of water.Bichirs come in all different colors and patterns and the most commonly seen Bichirs are the Senegal 'Cuvier' Bichir and the Ornate Bichir (also one of the largest with a potential of reaching 3 feet in size).
Though predatorial by nature, they can coexist peacefully with other monster fish, given they can't fit the fish into their mouths!
Here are some of our favorite species:
Semi-Platinum Senegal Bichir
Super rare and not often seen in the aquarium hobby Bichir! Their colors sheen and its their appearance and scarcity that makes this Bichir so sought after by oddball fish hobbyists.
New Guinea 'Ansorgii' Bichir
One of the less common Bichirs in the monster fish keeping hobby! Grows to a fairly larger size compared to other Bichir/Polypterus species. Known to grow to 30" at full adult size.
Endlicheri Bichir - Polypterus endlicheri Also known as the Saddled Bichir. They have a unique look that monster fish and oddball fish keepers like!
Delhezi Bichir - Polypterus Delhezi
Also known as Armored Bichir, Barred or Banded Bichir.
Albino Senegal 'Cuvier' Bichir - Polypterus senegalus var. 'Albino'
Commonly known as the Albino Cuvier Bichir, this albino strain of the Senegal Bichir is highly sought after by oddball fanatics and do well in an oddball fish tank setup! Also one of the smallest species in the Bichir family.
Senegal 'Cuvier' Bichir - Polypterus senegalus
Known as the Senegal Bichir, Cuvier Bichir or Gray Bichir.
 Ornate Bichir - Polypterus ornatipinnis
The Ornate Bichir is one of the largest Bichir species and is also one of the most highly coveted by oddball fish and monster fish keepers alike!
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