Ornate Bichir - Polypterus ornatipinnis : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Ornate Bichir (Polypterus ornatipinnis) is a distinct freshwater fish species native to the intricate aquatic ecosystems of Central Africa. Characterised by its elongated body, intricate patterns, and unique fin morphology, the Ornate Bichir is part of the ancient Polypteridae family. It has remained relatively unchanged for millions of years, often earning it the moniker of a "living fossil." This species, both captivating for aquarists and intriguing for ichthyologists, plays a pivotal role in our understanding of evolutionary biology and the diverse biota of its native habitats. Only experienced aquarists should consider keeping Ornate Bichirs.
Ornate Bichirs, inherently carnivorous, display a predominantly peaceful disposition and can coexist harmoniously with other medium-sized congenital species. However, it's prudent to avoid cohabitation with species small enough to be consumed, as they may fall prey during nocturnal hours. Suitable tankmates encompass medium-sized tranquil Cichlids like Angelfish, Severums, or Festivums, larger Gouramis, Knifefish, fellow Polypterus species, and Synodontis Catfish. Overly aggressive species should be sidestepped to prevent competition during feeding sessions.
For those considering housing multiple Ornate Bichirs in expansive tanks, it's essential to maintain uniformity in size and provide abundant hideouts; providing multiple for each fish facilitates territorial demarcation. Aquariums accommodating this species should offer ample space, with a suggested dimension of 6ft x 2ft x 2ft for mature individuals. Adequate coverage is imperative, given their proclivity for escape. Provisions should be made to seal any openings, including wire inlets, utilising filter foam or affixed mesh. Aquarium lids may necessitate additional weight for security.
Unique to the Ornate Bichirs is their capability to intake atmospheric air through specialised swim bladders. Consequently, a slight clearance between the water's surface and the lid is indispensable to enable them to access the surface for air intake. Restricting this access can lead to their drowning, hence the importance of maintaining a lowered waterline.
For substrate, soft sand is ideal, reflecting their natural behaviour of bottom foraging. Incorporating smooth, eroded rocks and slender driftwood aids in establishing shaded refuges. Dense vegetative regions with robust tall species like Vallisneria, expansive Anubias, or Aponogeton spp. are recommended. Ambient lighting should be moderated or, if intense, mitigated through dense vegetation.
Water filtration should be robust yet produce a mild outflow, ensuring the fish aren't battling strong currents. Notably, while Ornate Bichirs demonstrate adaptability to diverse conditions, they exhibit sensitivity to pH fluctuations. Consistent nitrate levels are crucial; thus, periodic partial water changes are recommended.
In terms of appearance, Ornate Bichirs boast a striking black and yellow design across their anatomy, head, and fins, punctuated by 9 to 11 dorsal spines. As the most prominent among the "upper jaw bichirs," they can grow up to 60 cm. Their colour palette spans from deep brown to a muted grey. A frequent presence in the aquarium trade, their lateral-eyed visage and dual pectoral fins position them among the most aesthetically pleasing Bichirs.
Ornate Bichir Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Sexual dimorphism in Ornate Bichirs is subtle; however, mature males are distinguishable by their more robust and broadened anal fin. Additionally, there are indications that males possess denser dorsal spines. Typically, females present a larger stature. Notably, these distinctions are not pronounced in younger specimens.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Polypterus ornatipinnis |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1902 |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Polypteriformes |
| Family | Polypteridae |
| Genus | Polypterus |
| Origins | Cameroon , Democratic Republic of the Congo , Burundi , Angola , Tanzania |
| Max Size | 60 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Pairs |
| Diet & Feeding | Carnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 15 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 5 - 25 |
| ℉ | 77 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 25 - 28 |
Natural Habitat
The Ornate Bichir is primarily native to areas including the Congo River basin, the Lake Rukwa drainage system, and the Lake Tanganyika Basin, spanning countries such as Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Angola, and Tanzania in Africa. This species inhabits a variety of freshwater ecosystems, from rivers and lakes to marshes and ponds.
While it demonstrates adaptability to a diverse range of aquatic conditions, it exhibits a preference for tranquil marshland habitats rich in aquatic flora. This reclusive, nocturnal predator customarily takes sanctuary in subdued, sheltered recesses during daylight hours and emerges post-sunset to forage on insect larvae, annelids, and diminutive piscine prey.
Breeding
Breeding Ornate Bichirs is a complex endeavour, ideally suited for a fervent enthusiast committed to the intricacies of aquatic breeding.
During their mating ritual, the male and female align themselves in an elegant synchronous swim, often weaving through dense aquatic vegetation. The male frequently exhibits distinct lateral head motions directed towards the female's physique. When the female is primed to lay eggs, her motion ceases, and the male skillfully envelops her genital region with his anal fin. In this still embrace, a handful of eggs are laid within a basin formed by the male's fin.
Subsequent fertilisation occurs before the male disperses the eggs with robust tail movements. These fertilised eggs possess an adhesive nature, anchoring themselves to the aquatic plants. This intricate process is reiterated multiple times until the female has laid her complete clutch, typically ranging from 200 to 300 eggs. The adult Bichirs demonstrate an absence of parental guardianship.
After a span of roughly 3 to 4 days, these eggs hatch. The emergent fry remains anchored to the foliage as they metabolise their yolk reserves. Upon exhausting their yolk sacs, it becomes imperative to provide them with nourishment, such as baby brine shrimp. Intriguingly, at this developmental phase, they exhibit prominent external gills reminiscent of salamander larvae, which eventually recede as they mature.
Diet & Feeding
The Ornate Bichir exhibits a carnivorous dietary profile primarily comprising aquatic invertebrates and smaller fish species. In their natural habitats, these fish predominantly feed on insect larvae, annelids, and various small fish indigenous to their ecosystem. Their robust and opportunistic feeding behaviour equips them to thrive in diverse aquatic conditions, ensuring their adaptability and survival.
Typically, captive diets for this species encompass a mix of meaty foods such as earthworms, prawns, feeder fish, and high-quality pelleted foods designed for carnivorous freshwater species. It's imperative to offer them a balanced diet with adequate nutritional content, avoiding over-reliance on any single food source.
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