If you don't plan on upgrading tanks (which is what it sounds like, as you inquired about keeping the bichir in the 55 for life), I would try to find fish that will fit the tank comfortably in the 55 for life.
Sounds like you are asking about the Boulengerella maculata (Spotted Pike Characin, Peruvian Gar ) which isn't a true gar, and maxes out at about 12".
I've been reading that an 80 gallon is good for life, but nothing smaller.
And apparently their beaks can break easily if they are spooked enough.
Sounds like you are asking about the Boulengerella maculata (Spotted Pike Characin, Peruvian Gar ) which isn't a true gar, and maxes out at about 12".
I've been reading that an 80 gallon is good for life, but nothing smaller.
And apparently their beaks can break easily if they are spooked enough.