Platinum Senegal Bichir - (Polypterus senegalus)

🐟 Platinum Senegal Bichir – (Polypterus senegalus) – Rare Color Morph of a Hardy, Ancient Fish for Sale

The Platinum Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus) is a rare and stunning color morph of one of the most popular bichir species, native in ancestry to the freshwaters of West and Central Africa. Its brilliant white to metallic platinum body and prehistoric appearance make it a prized addition for oddball fish enthusiasts.

Bichirs are among the most ancient fish still alive today, with armored scales, lung-like organs for breathing air, and a distinctive serpentine swimming motion. Hardy, adaptable, and full of personality, the Platinum Senegal Bichir is a perfect choice for aquarists with medium-to-large aquariums and a taste for unique fish.

🔎 Quick Facts – Platinum Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus)

• 📛 Common Name: Platinum Senegal Bichir
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Polypterus senegalus
• 🌍 Origin: West & Central Africa (platinum morph is selectively bred)
• 🎨 Appearance: Solid platinum-white body with armored scales and multiple dorsal finlets
• 📏 Max Size: 12–14 inches (30–35 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Rare; usually captive-bred

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐟 Peaceful toward similarly sized tankmates
• ⚠️ Predatory – will eat very small fish or invertebrates
• 🌙 Primarily nocturnal but active at feeding time
• 🧠 Hardy and long-lived under proper care

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 55+ gallons for a single adult
• 🌿 Fine sand or smooth gravel substrate
• 🪵 Provide caves, driftwood, and hiding areas
• 💡 Low to moderate lighting
• 🌊 Tight-fitting lid (bichirs can jump)

💧 Water Parameters – Platinum Senegal Bichir Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.8
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous Bichir

• 🦐 Frozen or live shrimp
• 🐟 Pieces of fish, tilapia fillets, or silversides
• 🪱 Earthworms, bloodworms, and carnivore pellets

📋 Platinum Senegal Bichir Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Platinum Senegal Bichir is a rare and hardy prehistoric fish whose dazzling platinum coloration and unique behavior make it a centerpiece in any oddball or predator aquarium.