Albino Senegalus Bichir - Polypterus senegalus
Posted by Max Gandara on on 14th Sep 2025
The Albino Senegalus Bichir is a striking freshwater fish prized for its prehistoric appearance and calm, intriguing behavior. With a pale, creamy-white body, red eyes, and distinctive elongated dorsal finlets, this albino variety stands out beautifully in any aquarium. Its long, slender body and slow, deliberate swimming style give it a unique presence, reminiscent of ancient fish species.
Native to West Africa, Albino Senegalus Bichirs are primarily nocturnal but can also be active during the day. They are carnivorous, feeding on a variety of meaty foods such as live or frozen shrimp, fish, worms, and high-quality sinking pellets. Offering a varied diet will help them maintain health, coloration, and vitality.
These Bichirs prefer spacious aquariums with plenty of hiding spots created by driftwood, rocks, and plants. They also need a secure lid, as they are known to explore and may occasionally attempt to escape. While generally peaceful, Albino Senegalus Bichirs are predatory and should not be housed with very small fish that they could see as food.
Scientific Name: Polypterus senegalus
Common Name: Albino Senegalus Bichir
Temperament: Peaceful to semi-aggressive
Adult Size: 12–18 inches
Diet: Carnivore (live/frozen foods, sinking pellets)
Water Conditions: 74–82°F, pH 6.5–7.5
Compatibility: Best with medium to large peaceful fish; avoid small or slow-moving tankmates
The Albino Senegalus Bichir is an impressive and hardy species, ideal for experienced aquarists seeking a unique, prehistoric-looking fish that adds both beauty and character to their aquarium.