New to Bichir would like some opinions

[aykinhk]

Hi all,
I am New to Bichir ,
Just pick up 2 new Bichir, LFS mention they are senegal bichir. Is that correct?
Are they just a common bichir?
Do they look healthy??
Thanks everyone!!!!

 

[Krismo962]

Yes ,they are senegals.Nice pickup

 

[aykinhk]

Yes ,they are senegals.Nice pickup

Thanks your reply, Why their body colour look so light or golden .
I thought senegal bichir look more brown or Grey silver..I search from internet

 

[Krismo962]

That's because yours are on bare bottom,they'll turn brown or grey if you get a dark sand.Mine are on tan sand so they aren't very dark.

 

[Hendre]

Nice looking fish! They tend to pick up a darker, greener colour on black sand:

The light patches are slime coat damage from a Synodontis catfish

 

[The Masked Shadow]

Will a Delhezi turn darker on red garnet?

I recommend red garnet. It’s what most people who keep many bichirs use. Pool filter sand, and the fine black sand mentioned also work, but red garnet is prettier.

 

[Polypterus_36]

Will a Delhezi turn darker on red garnet?

I recommend red garnet. It’s what most people who keep many bichirs use. Pool filter sand, and the fine black sand mentioned also work, but red garnet is prettier.

I find that delhezi turn greenish with darker patterns on garnet.

 

[clm08k]

Nice Senegals! The close-up pic of their faces is very nice. The only thing I am a little nervous about is the slightly discolored spots on the one. Have you treated them for any illnesses or parasites yet? Perhaps someone could comment as to what the spots are. It may also be trauma from running into something.

in regards to the substrate: I would recommend putting them on sand because they tend to enjoy resting on the bottom. As others have mentioned, darker (black or red) substrates can bring out greens, or you could do a yellower substrate. I currently have a mix of black and white sand. Just please do not use gravel, because they can and will eat it...this can potentially cause intestinal blockages. Would also recommend some flat rocks and plants or hides(without sharp edges) to make them more comfortable.

Welcome to the club!