The Albino Senegal Bichir (Polypterus senegalus - albino variant) is a selectively bred form of the common Senegal Bichir. It has a pale, cream-colored or pinkish body with red or pink eyes due to the lack of pigmentation. Despite its unique appearance, its behavior and care requirements are the same as the standard Senegal Bichir.
Key Information
• Maximum Size: Grows up to 12-14 inches (30-35 cm) in captivity, though some may remain slightly smaller.
• Native Habitat: The wild form (Polypterus senegalus) is found in West and Central Africa, including the Nile River, Chad Basin, Senegal River, and other freshwater bodies. The albino variety is not found in the wild.
• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast; they can grow several inches within the first year.
• Lifespan: 10-15 years, but with good care, they can live 20 years or more.
• Diet: Carnivorous, but sometimes considered opportunistic omnivores. In the wild, they eat small fish, crustaceans, insects, and worms. In captivity, they thrive on live, frozen, or high-protein sinking pellets. They may also eat some meaty prepared foods.
• Breeding Season: Rare in home aquariums but occurs during the rainy season in the wild. Males fertilize eggs that are scattered among plants.
• Best Tank Mates: Albino Senegal Bichirs are relatively peaceful and can coexist with similarly sized or larger fish. Good tank mates include:
• Other bichirs (of similar size)
• Ropefish
• Medium to large cichlids (such as Severums, Firemouths, or Geophagus)
• Large catfish (such as Synodontis or plecos)
• Silver dollars
• Other peaceful, non-aggressive fish too large to be eaten
Avoid: Small fish (like tetras or guppies), which will be eaten, and fin-nipping fish (like some barbs), which may harass the bichir.
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