Ornate Bichir - Polypterus ornatipinnis | Live Fish

Regular price $49.99
Sale price $49.99 Regular price
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Ornate Bichir (Polypterus ornatipinnis)

The Ornate Bichir features intricate black-and-gold markings, armored scales, and distinctive dorsal finlets that give it a prehistoric appearance. Its striking pattern makes it a standout addition to a spacious freshwater predator aquarium.

This bottom-dwelling carnivore needs ample floor space, strong filtration, and sheltered resting areas. Bichirs breathe air and must have access to the surface. A tightly secured lid is essential, as they can escape through small openings.

  • Adult size: Up to approximately 24 inches

  • Temperature: 77–82°F

  • Diet: Sinking carnivore pellets, earthworms, and suitable frozen foods

  • Temperament: Predatory; may eat fish small enough to swallow

  • Tankmates: Compatible fish too large to fit in its mouth

  • Setup: Large aquarium with smooth substrate, caves, and driftwood

Patterns and coloration vary by individual. Photos are representative unless marked WYSIWYG.

Shipping Tropical Fish from Cichlid Vault

Welcome to Cichlid Vault! We take great care to ensure your tropical fish arrive healthy, safe, and on time.

Shipping Schedule

  • We ship live fish orders four days a week to ensure minimal transit time and the safest delivery:

    Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
  • Orders are shipped via UPS Next Day Air.

Shipping Rates

🟢 Zone 1 – $39.99
CT • NJ • NY • PA

🟡 Zone 2 – $49.99
AL • DE • DC • FL • GA • IL • IN • KY • ME • MD • MA • MI • MS • NH • NC • OH • RI • SC • TN • VT • VA • WV • WI

🔴 Zone 3 – $59.99
AZ • AR • CA • CO • ID • IA • KS • LA • MN • MO • MT • NE • NV • NM • ND • OK • OR • SD • TX • UT • WA • WY

  • We do not ship to Puerto Rico, Hawaii, or Alaska at this time.

Local Pickup

Local pickup is available at Rockland Aquarium in New City, NY.

Cichlid Vault operates from a private facility and does not accept walk-ins.

Cichlid Vault Facility — No Walk-Ins
Local Pickup — Rockland Aquarium, New City, NY

To schedule a pickup, please text or call: 845-269-1530.

Live Arrival Guarantee

We stand behind every shipment with our Live Arrival Guarantee. To qualify:

  • A clear photo or video of any DOA fish inside the unopened original bag must be emailed within 2 hours of delivery.
  • Packages must be shipped to the correct address provided at checkout (no forwarding addresses).
  • Someone must be present to receive the package on the first delivery attempt.
  • Refunds are issued for the cost of the fish only; shipping fees are non-refundable.
  • All listed fish sizes are approximate.
  • Customers are responsible for complying with all local and state laws regarding livestock.

State Laws & Restrictions

Please verify your state’s regulations before placing your order.
If any species are prohibited in your state, your order will be canceled.

Where We Ship From

All live fish orders are shipped directly from our location in New City, New York.

🕐 Why “Next-Day Delivery” May Take Longer Than 24 Hours

“Next-Day Delivery” refers to the transit time — the period between when your package leaves our facility and when it arrives at your address.

Please note:

  • Delivery methods do not include handling or preparation time.
  • We ship Monday through Thursday only, to prevent weekend delays.
  • Orders may require additional time for packing, scheduling, or weather-related adjustments before they ship.

 

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need assistance:

📧Cichlidvault@gmail.com
📞 Text or Call: 845-269-1530