Ornate Bichir Aquarium Care Guide

Keeping Ornate Bichir in an aquarium requires the right conditions.

Aquarium Information

• Care level: intermediate
• Temperament: semi-aggressive
• Diet: carnivore
• Minimum tank size: 180 gallons (680 liters) for a single adult, larger for multiple or with tank mates
• Compatibility: Can be kept with other large, robust, and peaceful to semi-aggressive fish that are too large to be considered prey. Avoid small fish or overly aggressive species. Good tank mates include other large bichirs, large peaceful cichlids (e.g., Oscar, Green Terror if size difference is significant), large catfishes (e.g., Synodontis), and Arowanas.
• Special requirements: Requires a securely lidded tank as they are expert escape artists. A soft substrate (sand or fine gravel) is preferred to protect their delicate barbels. Ample hiding spots using driftwood, rocks, and large artificial or robust live plants are essential. Good filtration is necessary, but strong currents should be avoided. They are nocturnal hunters, so feeding should ideally occur in the evening or after lights out. Provide a varied diet of meaty foods.

Water parameters

Temperature

76-82°F (24-28°C)

pH level

6.5-7.5

Hardness

5-15 dGH

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