Polypterus Delhezi – Barred Bichir – Armoured Bichir – Banded Bichir

Polypterus Delhezi, also known as the Barred Bichir, Armoured Bichir, or Banded Bichir, is a fascinating and unique fish that will make a great addition to any aquarium. With its distinctive appearance and interesting behaviors, this fish is sure to capture the attention of any fish enthusiast.

Scientific and Common Names:
– Scientific Name: Polypterus Delhezi
– Common Names: Barred Bichir, Armoured Bichir, Banded Bichir

Habitat:
– Native to the rivers and swamps of Central Africa, particularly the Congo Basin.
– Found in slow-moving or stagnant waters with dense vegetation and muddy bottoms.

Tank Setup:
– Requires a spacious aquarium with a minimum size of 75 gallons.
– Provide plenty of hiding spots with rocks, caves, and driftwood.
– Substrate should be sandy or fine gravel to mimic their natural habitat.
– Dense vegetation, such as floating plants or tall plants, can be added to provide cover.
– Ensure the tank has a tight-fitting lid as these fish are known to be skilled jumpers.

Diet and Nutrition:
– Polypterus Delhezi are carnivorous and primarily feed on small fish, insects, crustaceans, and worms.
– Offer a varied diet consisting of high-quality pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small fish.
– Feed them once or twice a day, only providing what they can consume within a few minutes.

Size and Growth Rate:
– These fish can grow up to 18-20 inches in length.
– They have a slow growth rate and can take several years to reach their maximum size.

Behavioral Traits:
– Polypterus Delhezi are nocturnal and prefer to be active during the night.
– They are known for their unique way of swimming, using their pectoral fins to “walk” along the substrate.
– These fish are generally peaceful but can become territorial towards their own species or similar-looking fish.
– They are solitary by nature and prefer to be kept alone or in small groups.

Care Level:
– Intermediate to advanced level of care is required for keeping Polypterus Delhezi.
– They have specific habitat requirements and need a well-maintained aquarium with stable water parameters.
– Regular water changes and filtration are essential to maintain water quality.

Breeding and Reproduction:
– Breeding Polypterus Delhezi in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved.
– They are egg-layers and require specific conditions, such as a separate breeding tank with soft, acidic water.
– The female will lay eggs on a flat surface, and the male will fertilize them.
– After spawning, the parents should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs.

Health and Disease Prevention:
– Polypterus Delhezi are generally hardy fish but can be susceptible to common fish diseases.
– Maintain good water quality, provide a balanced diet, and avoid overcrowding to prevent stress and disease.
– Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank to prevent the spread of diseases.

Optimal Water Conditions:
– Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
– pH: 6.5-7.5
– Hardness: 5-15 dGH

Lifespan:
– With proper care, Polypterus Delhezi can live for 10-15 years or even longer.

Additional Interesting Facts:
– Polypterus Delhezi belongs to the ancient group of fish known as bichirs or “dinosaur fish.”
– They have a unique ability to breathe air using a specialized lung-like organ called a labyrinth organ.
– Their bodies are covered in thick, bony scales that provide protection against predators.
– These fish have been known to survive in low-oxygen environments by breathing air at the water’s surface.
– Polypterus Delhezi have been kept in captivity for many years and are popular among experienced fishkeepers for their unique appearance and behaviors.

Product Categories: Bichir, Fish

Secure Transit:
– Our 24-hour courier service ensures that your Polypterus Delhezi fish will arrive safely at your doorstep.
– We use poly boxes and heat packs during colder months to maintain optimal temperature during transit.

Shipping Convenience:
– Combine multiple items in one order to streamline shipping and reduce costs.
– We strive to provide a convenient and hassle-free shopping experience for our customers.

Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy:
– In the unfortunate event that any fish arrive deceased, promptly inform us with photographic evidence.
– We will either refund you or send you a replacement to ensure your satisfaction.

In conclusion, Polypterus Delhezi, also known as the Barred Bichir or Armoured Bichir, is a captivating fish with unique characteristics and behaviors. With proper care and attention to their specific needs, these fish can thrive in a well-maintained aquarium. Whether you are a seasoned fish enthusiast or a beginner looking for an intriguing addition to your tank, the Polypterus Delhezi is sure to provide endless fascination and enjoyment.