Species profile
Ornate Bichir
Polypterus ornatipinnisOrnate Bichir (Polypterus ornatipinnis) is a solo centerpiece fish for a cycled 180+ gallon freshwater aquarium. Plan for about 24 inches as an adult, 75-82°F water, pH 6.5-7.8, and advanced care. Keep only one per tank, and choose tankmates with matching water needs and low aggression.
High energyAdvanced care
180 galMinimum tank
24 inAdult size
1Schooling minimum
75-82°FTemperature
Water Range
- pH
- 6.5-7.8
- GH
- 4-15 dGH
- KH
- 2-10 dKH
Behavior
- Temperament
- Assertive
- Fin nipping
- 0/5
- Territory
- 3/5
Diet and Care
- Diet
- carnivore
- Diet difficulty
- 4/5
- Care difficulty
- 5/5
Planning Notes
Predatory fish; avoid tankmates small enough to swallow and plan for meaty foods.
This species may need live, frozen, fresh, or otherwise specialized foods.
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