Marbled Lungfish - (Protopterus aethiopicus)

🐟 Marbled Lungfish – (Protopterus aethiopicus) – African Lungfish for Sale

The Marbled Lungfish (Protopterus aethiopicus) is a prehistoric African freshwater fish known for its distinctive marbled pattern and incredible ability to breathe air. Native to rivers and lakes across East and Central Africa, this species can survive in oxygen-poor waters and even aestivate (hibernate) in mud during dry seasons. Highly intelligent and long-lived, the Marbled Lungfish is a fascinating addition for advanced aquarists with large aquariums.

🔎 Quick Facts – Marbled Lungfish

• 📛 Common Name: Marbled Lungfish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Protopterus aethiopicus
• 🌍 Origin: East & Central Africa – Nile River, Lake Victoria, Lake Albert, Lake Tanganyika
• 🎨 Appearance: Elongated body with dark marbled markings over a gray-brown base; long, eel-like tail; paired filamentous pectoral and pelvic fins
• 📏 Max Size: 6+ feet (1.8 m) in the wild; usually 3–4 feet (90–120 cm) in aquariums
• 💎 Availability: African lungfish for sale

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🦴 Solitary and territorial – best kept alone
• 🫁 Capable of breathing air using a primitive lung
• 🐌 Slow-moving but powerful; will eat anything it can fit in its mouth
• 💤 Can enter dormancy during drought conditions in the wild

🏠 Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 300+ gallons for adults
• 🪵 Provide sandy substrate, hiding spots, and driftwood
• 🌊 Low to moderate water movement
• 💡 Low 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)

• 🦐 Crustaceans, worms, and snails
• 🐟 Small fish and meaty frozen foods
• 🍖 High-protein pellets and seafood

📋 Overview Table – Marbled Lungfish Care

✨ Highlight:
The Marbled Lungfish is a living fossil with an extraordinary ability to breathe air, survive droughts, and grow to massive sizes, making it a remarkable choice for experienced aquarists with very large tanks.