Ornate Bichir
Polypterus Ornatipinnis
Ornate Bichir - 15-16cm is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
Overnight Priority Shipping
Overnight Priority Shipping
Overnight Priority Shipping
- North Island : $28.99
- South Island: $38.99
Non-Rural New Zealand Addresses Only.
Live Fish Guarantee Policy
Live Fish Guarantee Policy
We stand behind the health of every fish we ship. That’s why we offer a Live Arrival Guarantee on all orders shipped via overnight or two-day delivery.
To qualify for a refund or replacement in the rare case of a DOA (Dead on Arrival), the following conditions must be met:
- within the expected time frame (overnight or two-day service).
- unopened bag must be provided within 1 hour of delivery.
- Someone must be present to receive the package at the time of delivery.
This guarantee is void if:
- The package is delayed beyond the expected delivery time
- The shipping address is incorrect or incomplete
- The package is left outside unattended, especially in extreme weather conditions
- The bag has been opened prior to video documentation
We do not cover losses due to courier delays, missed deliveries, or improper acclimation after opening.
We care deeply about the well-being of our fish and your experience as a customer. Please refer to our Acclimation Guide and Shipping Policy for more information.
Ornate Bichir
🌎 Ethically Sourced
We source from responsible global suppliers.
🔒 Buy with Confidence
We stand behind every fish we ship. Every fish is carefully selected.
Ornate Bichir (Polypterus ornatipinnis)
The Ornate Bichir is one of the most striking members of the Polypteridae family, known for its prehistoric appearance and vivid black and yellow patterning. Native to the Congo River Basin in Central Africa, this bottom-dwelling predator features a long, armored body, external gill structures when young, and a series of spiny dorsal finlets that give it a true “dinosaur fish” look.
Ornate Bichirs can grow up to 60 cm in length and require a large, well-covered aquarium (minimum 400 L). They are nocturnal and enjoy dim lighting, sandy substrates, and plenty of hiding places. These fish breathe atmospheric air using a modified swim bladder, so they must have access to the surface and a secure lid to prevent escape.
Their diet should consist of meaty foods—frozen prawns, bloodworms, earthworms, and sinking carnivore pellets. They can coexist with similarly sized or larger, non-aggressive tankmates but will eat anything small enough to fit in their mouths.
Hardy, ancient, and incredibly unique, the Ornate Bichir is a fascinating centerpiece for experienced aquarists with large, predator-friendly tanks.
Temperament: Semi-Aggresive
Diet: Carnivore
Colour Form: Cream with black bands
Water Parameters: 25‑29 °C, pH 6.2‑7.8
Maximum Size (cm): 60
Classification: Polypteridae
Minimum Tank Size (litres): 400
Origin: Congo - Brazzaville and Congo - Kinshasa
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