Size
This fish can reach lengths of up to 2 feet in the wild, but in a home aquarium, they often reach just about 16 inches.
Physical Appearance
The dorsal surface of this species is typically highly distinct from the ventral surface, which is typically whitish. There are several dark bands that could branch at the bottom. Since the head is very large, one of the common names for Bichir is “fat-headed.” Unlike most other Polypterus species, this species keeps its external gills for a significantly longer period of time. 9 to 11 dorsal finlets are present.
Habitat
Popular in western Africa, the Mottled or Fathead Bichir (Polypterus weeksii) is distinguished by its placid demeanour and huge head.
Keeping as Pet
A foot print of 6 x 2 feet or greater, a soft sand substrate, and a mixture of smooth rocks, plants, and driftwood make up the perfect aquarium arrangement for an adult Mottled Bichir. Various meaty meals, such as earthworms, prawns, mussels, raw prawns and other feeder fish species including silver sides and lance fish, are part of a healthy diet for the mottled bichir. Although some Bichir have been reported to eat commercial meaty wafers and pellets, in general they thrive on live or frozen food. They should typically be fed an amount of food that they can finish in 5 minutes, 1 to 2 times each day.
Table
