SENEGAL BICHIR (Polypterus senegalus) FOR SALE CANADA | PREHISTORIC FRESHWATER FISH

Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus) for Sale in Canada

The Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus) is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly bichirs in the aquarium hobby. Renowned for its prehistoric appearance, armored scales, and graceful swimming style, this fascinating species has remained virtually unchanged for millions of years, making it a living fossil and a favorite among oddball fish enthusiasts.

Native to the rivers, floodplains, swamps, and lakes of West and Central Africa, the Senegal Bichir is highly adaptable, hardy, and relatively peaceful compared to many other predatory fish. Its curious personality and ability to breathe atmospheric air make it an exciting centerpiece for large freshwater aquariums.

Monster Aquarium Canada proudly offers healthy Senegal Bichirs with professional live fish shipping throughout Canada.

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Why Choose a Senegal Bichir?

A Hardy and Fascinating Prehistoric Fish

The Senegal Bichir is highly sought after because of its:

Unique Features

• Ancient prehistoric appearance
• Armored body covered with ganoid scales
• Dragon-like swimming style
• Hardy and adaptable
• Air-breathing ability
• Peaceful temperament
• Excellent beginner bichir species
• Long lifespan

Its calm nature and manageable adult size make it one of the best choices for aquarists entering the world of bichirs.

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Care Requirements

Aquarium Size

A minimum 75-gallon aquarium is recommended for a single adult Senegal Bichir.

Provide:

• Soft sand or smooth gravel substrate
• Powerful biological filtration
• Driftwood and caves
• Moderate water movement
• Dim lighting
• Secure escape-proof lid

Senegal Bichirs regularly surface to breathe atmospheric oxygen, so always leave a small air space between the water surface and the aquarium lid.

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Water Parameters

• Scientific Name: Polypterus senegalus
• Common Name: Senegal Bichir
• Adult Size: 12–16 inches (30–40 cm)
• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH: 6.5–7.8
• Water Hardness: Soft to Moderately Hard
• Care Level: Easy to Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful Predator
• Diet: Carnivore
• Origin: West and Central Africa
• Lifespan: 15–20 years

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Feeding Your Senegal Bichir

Senegal Bichirs require a varied carnivorous diet.

Recommended Foods

• Earthworms
• Bloodworms
• Shrimp
• Mussels
• Krill
• Silversides
• Chopped fish
• Frozen carnivore foods
• Sinking carnivore pellets
• High-quality predator pellets

Feeding once daily during the evening closely matches their natural feeding behavior.

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Ideal Aquarium Setup

Create a habitat that mimics slow-moving African waterways.

Recommended Features

• Aquarium of at least 75 gallons
• Fine sand or smooth gravel
• Driftwood
• Smooth rocks
• Caves and hiding places
• Moderate lighting
• Strong biological filtration
• Tight-fitting aquarium lid

A well-decorated aquarium with shaded areas encourages natural exploration while reducing stress.

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Compatible Tank Mates

Suitable companions include:

• Silver Dollars
• Severums
• Geophagus
• Rope Fish
• Synodontis Catfish
• Large Rainbowfish
• Large Plecos
• Other peaceful bichirs

Avoid:

• Small community fish
• Shrimp
• Crayfish
• Aggressive fin-nipping fish
• Highly territorial cichlids

Always choose tank mates too large to fit into the bichir’s mouth.

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Why Buy Senegal Bichirs from Monster Aquarium Canada?

Premium Healthy Specimens

Every Senegal Bichir is carefully selected for:

• Excellent body condition
• Healthy appetite
• Bright natural coloration
• Active behaviour
• Superior overall health

Professional Live Fish Shipping Across Canada

Monster Aquarium Canada uses professional insulated packaging and live fish shipping methods to help ensure your Senegal Bichir arrives safely anywhere in Canada.

Canada’s Trusted Aquarium Supplier

Monster Aquarium Canada proudly supplies premium bichirs, monster fish, rare freshwater fish, aquarium supplies, premium fish foods, aquatic medications, and aquarium accessories with dependable nationwide shipping.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How large does a Senegal Bichir grow?

Adults typically reach 12–16 inches (30–40 cm) under proper care.

2. Can Senegal Bichirs breathe air?

Yes. Senegal Bichirs have primitive lungs and regularly swim to the surface to breathe atmospheric oxygen.

3. Are Senegal Bichirs aggressive?

They are generally peaceful but opportunistic predators. Any fish small enough to fit into their mouths may be eaten.

4. Is the Senegal Bichir suitable for beginners?

Yes. It is considered one of the hardiest and easiest bichir species to care for, making it an excellent introduction to prehistoric freshwater fish.

5. Does Monster Aquarium Canada ship Senegal Bichirs across Canada?

Yes. Monster Aquarium Canada provides professional live fish shipping across Canada, ensuring your Senegal Bichir arrives healthy and ready for its new aquarium.