🐟 Lapradei Bichir – Polypterus lapradei – Exotic Freshwater Bichir for Sale

The Lapradei Bichir – Polypterus lapradei for sale is a prehistoric-looking freshwater predator from Africa, prized for its elongated body, armored scales, and distinctive dorsal finlets. Often called the “dinosaur eel” due to its ancient lineage, this bichir is a hardy, adaptable species that adds a unique and dramatic presence to large aquariums.

Native to slow-moving rivers and floodplains in West Africa, the Lapradei Bichir is a nocturnal hunter that thrives in dimly lit aquariums with plenty of hiding spots. Its fascinating swimming style, surface breathing ability, and bold personality make it a standout choice for experienced fishkeepers and predatory fish enthusiasts.

🔎 Quick Facts – Polypterus lapradei

📛 Common Name: Lapradei Bichir, Dinosaur Eel
🔬 Scientific Name: Polypterus lapradei
🌍 Origin: West Africa (Niger, Benue, Chad, Volta River Basins)
🎨 Appearance: Long, eel-like body with armored scales and multiple dorsal finlets
📏 Max Size: 20–30 inches (50–76 cm)
💎 Availability: Exotic freshwater bichir for sale

😇 Behavior & Temperament

🐟 Generally peaceful toward similarly sized fish, but will eat smaller tankmates
🌙 Primarily nocturnal but may become active during the day with regular feeding
💪 Hardy and adaptable predator

🏠 Tank Requirements

📦 Minimum Tank Size: 150+ gallons
🌊 Moderate water movement with excellent filtration
🪵 Provide caves, driftwood, and rock structures for hiding
💡 Dim to moderate lighting to mimic natural habitat

💧 Water Parameters

🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
💧 Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet

🐟 Carnivorous: Fresh or frozen fish, shrimp, earthworms
🍽️ High-quality sinking carnivore pellets
🦐 Occasional live foods for enrichment

🔍 Sexing

👨 Males: Larger, broader anal fin
👩 Females: Slightly smaller, rounder body shape

📋 Overview Table – Lapradei Bichir Care

Feature	Details
🌍 Origin	West Africa (Niger, Benue, Chad, Volta River Basins)
📏 Max Size	20–30 inches (50–76 cm)
😇 Temperament	Peaceful with similar-sized tankmates, predatory toward small fish
🏠 Tank Size	150+ gallons
⚗️ pH Range	6.5–7.5
🌡️ Temp	75–82°F (24–28°C)
🍽️ Diet	Carnivorous – fish, shrimp, pellets, worms
🎯 Ideal For	Large predatory aquariums, bichir collectors, experienced keepers

✨ Highlight:
Add a living fossil to your aquarium with the Lapradei Bichir – Polypterus lapradei for sale, an exotic freshwater predator known for its prehistoric appearance, hardy nature, and fascinating behavior. Perfect for large predator tanks, this bichir is an eye-catching centerpiece for serious aquarists.