Albino Bichir 16cm

Albino Bichir

There are plenty of unusual fish in the aquarium hobby, but very few attract attention quite like an Albino Bichir. Combining one of the oldest surviving fish lineages on Earth with the striking appearance of albinism creates an aquarium fish that is unlike almost anything else available. Their prehistoric appearance, curious personality and ghostly white coloration make them an unforgettable addition to larger aquariums.

Unlike their wild counterparts, Albino Bichirs display a stunning creamy white to pale pink body accompanied by bright ruby-red eyes that immediately identify their albino genetics. Their distinctive row of dorsal finlets and powerful pectoral fins give them the unmistakable prehistoric silhouette that bichirs are famous for, while the absence of dark pigmentation allows every movement and subtle scale detail to stand out beautifully. Against darker substrates or black backgrounds, the contrast becomes absolutely spectacular.

Sexing mature Albino Bichirs follows the same pattern as other bichir species, with males developing a broader anal fin. Successful captive breeding remains uncommon and generally requires very mature fish housed in exceptionally large aquariums.

Tank Recommendations for your Albino Bichir

Albino Bichirs eventually become impressive aquarium fish and require a minimum aquarium size of 400 litres as adults. Provide soft sand, driftwood, caves and subdued lighting to help these fish feel secure. Like all bichirs, they regularly surface to breathe air, making a secure lid absolutely essential.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Albino Bichirs are peaceful with appropriately sized tank mates but remain opportunistic predators.

Usually Compatible

Silver dollars, severums, larger rainbowfish, Geophagus, peaceful catfish and other robust fish too large to become prey.

Sometimes Compatible

Other bichirs, larger Synodontis and medium-sized cichlids may coexist well in spacious aquariums with plenty of hiding places.

Rarely Compatible

Nano fish, shrimp and other species small enough to fit inside the bichir's mouth should generally be avoided.

Feeding your Albino Bichir

A quality carnivore pellet should form the basis of their diet, supplemented with prawns, mussels, whitebait, bloodworms and blackworms. Offering a varied meaty diet promotes healthy growth while maintaining excellent body condition.