Size of Ornate Bichir?

[SFury]

How long has it been that size for?

I've had her for over four years now. She's been that size for the last 18 months or so. If she is growing, it's really slow going at this point.

 

[SUNFLOWER]

I have 2 they are 20 inches 6 years I do not think they will grow much more they have been this size for over 2 years .

 

[shenzhenluohan]

I've seen them reach some big sizes around22-25"

 

[David R]

I've had her for over four years now. She's been that size for the last 18 months or so. If she is growing, it's really slow going at this point.

It probably has slowed down a lot, to the point where you don't even notice it. I know I thought my ornate hadn't grown much until I measured it recently...

 

[StripeGirl]

mine is 22 inches..

 

[uwe]

Hello,

if discussing the size a Ornate could reach one have to have in mind that Polypterids are able to get very very old! Most bichirs are growing fast from larvae to sub-adult, then they tend to let it go somewhat slower.
The big species like P.e.endlicheri, P.e.congicus or in this case P.ornatipinnis grow fast 'til they are over 12-15 inches long - then the growth rate slow down. The bigger the bichir the slower the growth. We do know that also from the most other big fish ...

Greetings
Uwe

 

[snow]

20" is around max for one in a tank.

 

[David R]

I agree with Uwe, and I think tank size may also play a part in determining the size the growth starts to slow. Polypterus can live for 20+ years, maybe a lot more, so to say that a 3 year old bichir has stopped growing is a little premature IMO.