Polypterus delhezi

Sexing

 * Males have a large pocket-like anal fin and are smaller then females.

Tank compatibility

 * These fish can be kept with similar-sized or larger fish in a large aquarium. Anything small enough to fit in this Bichir's mouth will be eaten. Generally intolerant of their own species.

Diet

 * Prefers a meaty diet of prawns/shrimp, mussels and bait fish.

Feeding regime

 * Feed once a day after lights out.

Environment Specifics

 * Must have a large spacious tank with a heavy secure lid as these fish are powerful jumpers. Live plants will tend to be torn up, wood and rock décor with hiding places are appreciated and they prefer a sandy substrate.

Behaviour

 * A large nocturnal predator that cannot be trusted with small, slow or not aggressive enough species that have to compete with food. Bad tank mates include plecos, small bottom feeders and eels.

Identification

 * An elongated fish with a snake-like broad and flat head, the body is marbled with several dark bands across the back.