Laprade's Bichir

About

Found across the river systems and floodplains of West and Central Africa, Polypterus bichir lapradei is a subspecies of one of the largest bichirs in the hobby, capable of reaching close to two feet in length in a well-maintained aquarium. Like all polypterids, it belongs to an ancient lineage that has changed remarkably little over millions of years, and it shows. The long, armored body, the distinctive dorsal finlets, and the lobed pectoral fins give it an appearance unlike almost anything else in freshwater fishkeeping. One of the most fascinating quirks of this fish is its ability to breathe atmospheric air using a primitive lung-like organ, meaning it will regularly surface to gulp air and can actually survive brief periods out of water. That said, a tight-fitting lid is non-negotiable, since bichirs are notorious escape artists. In the aquarium it is a patient, deliberate predator that will consume any tankmate it can fit in its mouth, so companions need to be chosen carefully. Other large, robust fish are the safest bet. Feeding is straightforward given its carnivorous appetite, with meaty foods like fish, shrimp, and earthworms all accepted readily. This is an intermediate-level fish mainly because of its sheer size and the space it demands.