Ornate Bichir 12cm

Ornate Bichir

If dinosaurs were still swimming around today, they'd probably look something like a bichir. These incredible prehistoric fish have remained virtually unchanged for millions of years and continue to fascinate aquarists with their ancient appearance, powerful swimming style, and surprising intelligence. The Ornate Bichir is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular members of the family and is often considered the ultimate display bichir.

The Ornate Bichir develops an incredibly intricate pattern of jet-black markings over a creamy yellow to olive body, creating a maze-like pattern that becomes even more striking as the fish matures. Their long, cylindrical body is supported by a row of distinctive dorsal finlets that resemble miniature dinosaur spines, while the broad pectoral fins allow them to "walk" across the substrate in search of food. As adults, these fish develop an imposing presence and quickly become the undisputed centrepiece of any large aquarium.

Sexing Ornate Bichirs is difficult until maturity, with males generally developing a broader anal fin used during spawning. Captive breeding remains relatively uncommon due to their size and specialised spawning requirements, although successful breeding has been achieved by experienced keepers with mature pairs.

Tank Recommendations for your Ornate Bichir

Although this specimen is currently small, Ornate Bichirs eventually reach around 60 cm, requiring a minimum aquarium size of 600 litres as adults. Fine sand, driftwood and large caves provide ideal shelter during the day, while open swimming space allows these fish to patrol the aquarium at night. A tightly fitting lid is absolutely essential, as bichirs are surprisingly capable escape artists and regularly surface to breathe atmospheric air.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Ornate Bichirs are peaceful towards fish too large to swallow, but remain opportunistic predators.

Usually Compatible
Severums, Oscars, silver dollars, larger Geophagus, peaceful catfish, stingrays, and other robust fish that comfortably exceed the size of the bichir's mouth.

Sometimes Compatible
Larger Synodontis, medium-sized cichlids, and other bichirs may coexist successfully in spacious aquariums with plenty of territories.

Rarely Compatible
Tetras, guppies, rainbowfish, shrimp, and other small community fish should generally be avoided, as they will almost certainly become food once the bichir grows.

Feeding your Ornate Bichir

Ornate Bichirs are carnivorous predators that thrive on quality sinking carnivore pellets, supplemented with prawns, mussels, whitebait, earthworms, blackworms, and frozen bloodworms. A varied, meaty diet will support steady growth while maintaining their bold natural patterning.