The "bich ornate TR fish" is likely a misspelling of the ornate bichir (Polypterus ornatipinnis), a prehistoric-looking freshwater fish known for its long, cylindrical body, snake-like appearance, and intricate black and gold markings. It has a prominent dorsal fin composed of multiple finlets, a primitive lung allowing it to breathe air, and is a nocturnal predator that can grow up to 24 inches.
Physical characteristics
Body: Long, cylindrical, and covered in thick, protective scales.
Coloration: Base color is medium to dark brown with beautiful, intricate patterns of whitish or ivory spots, and dark vertical markings.
Fins:
A long, segmented dorsal fin with multiple finlets runs along the second half of its back.
Large, paddle-like pectoral fins allow it to "walk" along the substrate.
The tail fin is spade-shaped.
Size: Adults can reach 18 to 24 inches in length.
Behavior and diet
Nocturnal: Primarily active at night and often hides during the day.
Predator: A carnivorous predator that will eat any fish or invertebrate it can fit into its mouth, so it should be kept with other large, similar-sized fish.
Aggression: Generally calm and passive toward large tank mates, but can be aggressive toward its own kind if tank space is limited.
Habitat and aquarium care
Aquarium size: A large aquarium is needed, with a minimum of 75 gallons recommended for a single adult, and a minimum of 125 gallons recommended for adult ornate bichirs, says Pet Zone Tropical Fish.
Environment: A dimly lit aquarium with plenty of hiding spots (rocks, driftwood, caves) is ideal.
Substrate: A soft sand substrate is recommended to protect their sensitive undersides.
Lid: A tight-fitting lid is essential because they are prone to jumping.
Tank mates: Best kept with other large, non-aggressive fish.
Diet: Requires a protein-rich diet of live or frozen foods like bloodworms, shrimp, and fish fillets.
The "bich ornate TR fish" is likely a misspelling of the ornate bichir (Polypterus ornatipinnis), a prehistoric-looking freshwater fish known for its long, cylindrical body, snake-like appearance, and intricate black and gold markings. It has a prominent dorsal fin composed of multiple finlets, a primitive lung allowing it to breathe air, and is a nocturnal predator that can grow up to 24 inches.
Physical characteristics
Body: Long, cylindrical, and covered in thick, protective scales.
Coloration: Base color is medium to dark brown with beautiful, intricate patterns of whitish or ivory spots, and dark vertical markings.
Fins:
A long, segmented dorsal fin with multiple finlets runs along the second half of its back.
Large, paddle-like pectoral fins allow it to "walk" along the substrate.
The tail fin is spade-shaped.
Size: Adults can reach 18 to 24 inches in length.
Behavior and diet
Nocturnal: Primarily active at night and often hides during the day.
Predator: A carnivorous predator that will eat any fish or invertebrate it can fit into its mouth, so it should be kept with other large, similar-sized fish.
Aggression: Generally calm and passive toward large tank mates, but can be aggressive toward its own kind if tank space is limited.
Habitat and aquarium care
Aquarium size: A large aquarium is needed, with a minimum of 75 gallons recommended for a single adult, and a minimum of 125 gallons recommended for adult ornate bichirs, says Pet Zone Tropical Fish.
Environment: A dimly lit aquarium with plenty of hiding spots (rocks, driftwood, caves) is ideal.
Substrate: A soft sand substrate is recommended to protect their sensitive undersides.
Lid: A tight-fitting lid is essential because they are prone to jumping.
Tank mates: Best kept with other large, non-aggressive fish.
Diet: Requires a protein-rich diet of live or frozen foods like bloodworms, shrimp, and fish fillets.
