Polypterus endlicheri congicus, commonly known as the Congo Bichir, is a fascinating species within the Polypteridae family, often referred to as “living fossils” due to their ancient lineage. Native to the Congo River Basin in Central Africa, these bichirs are renowned for their distinctive appearance and considerable size, making them a unique addition to large home aquariums.

Physical Characteristics:

The Congo Bichir boasts an elongated, serpentine body covered with ganoid scales, providing a prehistoric aesthetic. They possess a series of dorsal finlets and pectoral fins that aid in their movement along the substrate. This species is among the largest in the Polypterus genus, with individuals capable of reaching lengths up to 30 inches (76 cm) in captivity, though sizes in the wild can be larger. 

Habitat and Behavior:

In their natural environment, Congo Bichirs inhabit slow-moving rivers, swamps, and marshes within the Congo Basin. They are benthic creatures, often found dwelling near the bottom, where they utilize their well-developed olfactory senses to locate prey. Equipped with both gills and a specialized swim bladder functioning as a lung, they can breathe atmospheric air, an adaptation that allows survival in oxygen-poor waters. 

Aquarium Care:

Housing a Congo Bichir requires a spacious aquarium due to their potential size. A minimum tank size of 180 gallons (681 liters) is recommended for adult specimens. The aquarium should have ample floor space, as these fish are bottom-dwellers. A soft substrate, such as sand, is ideal to prevent damage to their underbelly, and the inclusion of driftwood and smooth rocks can provide necessary hiding spots. While live plants are optional, they can enhance the habitat’s aesthetics and offer additional cover. It’s crucial to ensure the tank has a tight-fitting lid, as bichirs are known escape artists capable of surviving out of water for short periods. 

Water Parameters:

Congo Bichirs thrive in water temperatures ranging from 72-82°F (22-28°C), with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0, and water hardness of 5-25°H. Regular water changes and efficient filtration are essential to maintain water quality, as these fish can produce significant waste. 

Diet:

As carnivores, Congo Bichirs prefer a diet rich in meaty foods. They readily accept live or frozen options such as shrimp, earthworms, mussels, and fish fillets. While some individuals may adapt to high-quality pelleted foods, a varied diet ensures optimal health and vitality. 

Tank Mates:

When selecting tank mates, it’s imperative to choose species too large to be considered prey, as Congo Bichirs will consume smaller fish. Suitable companions include larger, non-aggressive species that occupy different levels of the aquarium, minimizing territorial disputes. Monitoring interactions is essential to ensure a harmonious community.

Breeding:

Breeding Congo Bichirs in captivity is challenging and not commonly documented. In the wild, they are known to be egg scatterers, releasing adhesive eggs among vegetation. Replicating such conditions in an aquarium setting requires meticulous attention to water parameters and habitat setup, and even then, success is not guaranteed.