Polypterus delhezi

Common name(s) Armoured bichir, Barred/Banded bichir Picture of Polypterus delhezi

Photos © Sean Evans

Scientific name Polypterus delhezi

Synonyms

Size Up to 14" (35cm)

Origin Central Africa: Congo river, Upper and middle Congo (formerly Zaire)

Tank setup Large tank, with bogwood and a few plants for decor, sandy substrate

Compatibility Predatory, keep with larger fish such as knifefish, Siamese tigerfish, etc.

Temperature 26-28^oC (79-82^oF)

Water chemistry Fairly soft, slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.

Feeding Carnivore, will eat dead meaty foods such as baitfish, mussel and prawn/shrimp.

Sexing The anal fin of mature males is larger and thicker.

Breeding No detailed accounts known, but likely to be similar to other Polypterus.

Comments This fish is predatory and may eat anything which will fit into its mouth. They can be intolerant of their own species and may bite them. They should, however, be fine with other tankmates which are too large to fit in their mouths, such as large cichlids and catfish. Make sure the tank has a tight-fitting cover, as these fish have a reputation as escape artists.

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This website was last updated on 18th January 2008

Common name(s)	Armoured bichir, Barred/Banded bichir	`Photos © Sean Evans`
Scientific name	Polypterus delhezi
Synonyms
Size	Up to 14" (35cm)
Origin	Central Africa: Congo river, Upper and middle Congo (formerly Zaire)
Tank setup	Large tank, with bogwood and a few plants for decor, sandy substrate
Compatibility	Predatory, keep with larger fish such as knifefish, Siamese tigerfish, etc.
Temperature	26-28^oC (79-82^oF)
Water chemistry	Fairly soft, slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.
Feeding	Carnivore, will eat dead meaty foods such as baitfish, mussel and prawn/shrimp.
Sexing	The anal fin of mature males is larger and thicker.
Breeding	No detailed accounts known, but likely to be similar to other Polypterus.
Comments	This fish is predatory and may eat anything which will fit into its mouth. They can be intolerant of their own species and may bite them. They should, however, be fine with other tankmates which are too large to fit in their mouths, such as large cichlids and catfish. Make sure the tank has a tight-fitting cover, as these fish have a reputation as escape artists.