DELHERZI BICHIR
- RM0.00
The Delhezi Bichir (Polypterus delhezi), also known as the barred, banded, or armored bichir, is a nocturnal, carnivorous catfish of ancient origins, a native of the Congo River’s middle section, in Central Africa. Mottled with yellow and green specks over roughly a dozen short black stripes, this living fossil is a unique, hardy fish that will give your aquarium an incredible prehistoric vibe and are generally easy to care for.
| Common Name(s) | Delhezi Bichir, barred bichir, armored bichir, banded bichir |
| Scientific Name | Polypterus delhezi |
| Origin | Central Africa (Congo River) |
| Temperature | 76 to 83°F (24 to 28°C) |
| Size | Up to 17 in. (43 cm) |
| Minimum Tank Size | 100 gal/fish (378.5 L) |
| Food & Diet | Carnivorous |
| Lifespan | 10 – 15 years |
| Water pH & GH | 6.0 – 8.0 pH, 5 – 20 GH |
| Tank Mates | Polypterus, Datnoides, Synodontis, large Ctenopoma, medium – large characins, African Butterfly Fish, Knife Fish |
| Breeding | Egg Scatterer |
| Disease | May be susceptible to Ich. |
Temperature
The optimal temperature range for Delhezi Bichirs is 76-83°F. While they are hardy fish that are able to withstand a wide range of temperatures, installing an aquarium heater and aquarium thermometer is recommended for most tanks.
Different temperatures do have an affect on the fish. For example, many have observed that slightly increasing the water temperature stimulate the fish’s appetite. While this is not an observation that has been studied scientifically, it does make sense that temperature would affect the fish’s behavior.
Water pH
While Delhezi Bichirs are hardy and able to survive various water conditions, they prefer soft, acidic parameters. An aquarium pH of 6.0 – 8.0 and GH of 5 – 20 will provide comfortable living conditions for your bichir.
Delhezi Bichir Size
The average adult Delhezi Bichir will grow up to between 14 and 17 inches in length. Of course, genetics and quality of care will likely impact the size of your barred bichir. Other bichir species may grow up to 2 ½ feet!
Delhezi Bichir Growth Rate
Observed by several aquarists, Delhezi Bichir are known to grow between ½ – 1 inch per month. Banded bichir growth rate is not frequently observed, as the fish are not typically bred in captivity, and are usually purchased as full-grown adults.
Delhezi Bichir Tank Size
The recommended tank size for one adult Delhezi Bichir is 100 gal. Juveniles may start their lives in a 20 – 50 gal. tank before being moved to their more giant, permanent aquarium.
If tank mates are involved, make sure the aquarium is large enough to meet the behavioral needs of not only your Delhezi Bichir but your other fish as well!
Delhezi Bichir Food & Diet
A carnivorous fish, the Delhezi Bichir is a nocturnal predator that requires a protein-rich diet to stay healthy. A variety of live, frozen, and dry bloodworms, weather loaches, ox heart, nightcrawlers, and shrimp is preferred to enhance their health.
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