Mottled Bichir (Polypterus weeksii)
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Mottled Bichir
Fathead Bichir
Polypterus weeksii
473 Litres (125 US G.)
45-54 cm (17.7-21.3")
Freshwater
6.5 - 7.5
23 -27 °C (73.4-80.6°F)
6-16 °d
1:1 M:F
8-15 years
Family
Polypteridae
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Contents
Additional names
- Fathead Bichir, Mottled Bichir, Week's Bichir
Additional scientific names
- Polypterus schoutedeni, Polypterus weeksi
Tank compatibility
- A relatively peaceful Bichir, however, will eat smaller fish. Should only be kept with robust peaceful fish larger than itself. Will cohabit with other Bichirs.
Behaviour
- A bottom-dwelling large predatory fish. Only a threat to fish smaller than itself.
Identification
- This species usually has a very clear distinction between the dark greyish-green dorsal surface and the whitish ventral surface. Several dark bands are present which may fork towards the bottom. The head is relatively large, giving rise to one of the common names of 'fat-headed' Bichir. This species retains external gills much longer than most other Polypterus species. There are 9-11 dorsal finlets.
Pictures
External links
- Fishbase (Mirrors:
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