Palmas Bichir tank mates
Polypterus palmas
6 rated pairings from the Palmas Bichir care guide. Compatibility here means water, temperament, tank zone and adult size all line up — the note on each card says why. Palmas Bichir needs at least 55 gallons on its own; every companion adds to that.
Good matches
5 · Compatible with normal care — watch space and numbers.Senegal Bichir
Polypterus senegalus
75 gal min · 12" adult · Semi-aggressive
Similar size and temperament; both are bichirs and coexist well if adequately fed and given space
Ornate Bichir
Polypterus ornatipinnis
90 gal min · 18" adult · Semi-aggressive
Compatible bichir species of comparable size; ensure ample hiding spots to reduce competition
Rope Fish
Erpetoichthys calabaricus
55 gal min · 15" adult · Peaceful
Peaceful bottom dweller that shares similar water parameters and is too large to be eaten
Spotted Raphael Catfish
Agamyxis pectinifrons
30 gal min · 6" adult · Peaceful
Armored catfish that can hold its own; shares similar water conditions and bottom-dwelling habits
African Butterflyfish
Pantodon buchholzi
30 gal min · 5" adult · Semi-aggressive
Occupies the surface zone, leaving the bottom to the bichir; compatible in larger tanks
Use caution
1 · Works in the right setup; read the note before combining.Planning this tank?
Run the whole stock list through the calculator — it checks bioload and schooling numbers, not just pairings.