Longfin Bichir Nostril Issue

[SpecialKay]

A couple of my older longfins are having issues eating due to their long nostrils. Everytime they try to eat, the nostrils get sucked into their mouths, blocking them from sucking up food. It's bad enough that it takes 4-5 tries before they can get a piece of food into their mouths. I can tell it irritates them as well, because they constantly chew on the nostrils outside feeding time.

Should I trim their nostrils down? Their chewing has actually made things worse, because it has turned the front part of the nostrils wider, exacerbating the issue.

 

[tlindsey]

Should I trim their nostrils down

No don't do that.

 

[SpecialKay]

No don't do that.

Ok, anything I can do to help them have an easier time? Im having to overfeed heavily to make sure they are able to get some food.

 

[tlindsey]

having to overfeed heavily to make sure they are able to get some food.

I suggest purchasing 1" pvc pipe from hardware store. Lowe's and Home Depot will sell it in 4ft and over lengths. Cut pipe a little than the height of the aquarium. Place pvc pipe near polys and drop sinking food in the pipe.