POLYTARUS PALMAS

🐉 Polypterus Palmas – Hardy, Ancient, and Perfect for Oddball & Monster Tanks

The Polypterus palmas, also known as the Palmas Bichir, is a captivating, prehistoric freshwater predator from West Africa. Known for its dinosaur-like body, armored scales, and lung-like breathing ability, this bichir species is a favorite among oddball and monster fish collectors.

Its bold personality, bottom-dwelling behavior, and peaceful nature toward similarly sized tankmates make it an excellent choice for predator tanks, large aquascapes, or African biotope setups. With striking mottled patterns and glowing eyes, the Palmas Bichir is as beautiful as it is ancient.

🐟 Species Profile:

• Scientific Name: Polypterus palmas

• Common Name: Palmas Bichir

• Adult Size: 12–14 inches

• Temperament: Peaceful with similarly sized tankmates

• Tank Size: 55+ gallons (larger preferred)

• Water Parameters: 75–82°F | pH 6.5–7.5 | Moderate hardness

• Diet: Carnivore – loves frozen shrimp, tilapia, earthworms, sinking pellets, carnivore sticks

🛠️ Tank Setup & Compatibility:

Polypterus palmas thrive in:

• Dim or low-light aquariums with driftwood and hiding spaces

• Soft sand or smooth gravel substrate

• Tanks with a secure lid – bichirs can breathe air and may escape if given the chance

Compatible with:

• Larger tetras, catfish, cichlids, rope fish, datnoids, knife fish, and other bichirs

• Avoid small fish that could be seen as prey (e.g., guppies, neons)

• Peaceful toward other bottom dwellers and mid-level swimmers

Behavior:

• 🧠 Smart and interactive—recognizes feeding routines

• 🫁 Can gulp atmospheric air—can survive in low-oxygen water briefly

• 🦎 Moves like a miniature aquatic dinosaur—fascinating to observe!

🛒 Why Buy Polypterus Palmas from RobsAquatics.com?

Each Palmas Bichir is:

• ✅ Carefully quarantined and feeding on prepared foods

• ✅ Health-inspected and selected for vibrant patterning

• ✅ Shipped live with our Live Arrival Guarantee

• ✅ Perfect for monster tanks, oddball collections, or biotope displays

📦 Add prehistoric movement and personality to your aquarium with the legendary Polypterus palmas—available now at RobsAquatics.com.