Protopterus Dolloi

Datasheet

General Description

Lungfish, specifically the Protopterus Dolloi or Slender Lungfish, are ancient and fascinating aquarium subjects, known to survive in extreme conditions. With limb-like fins for tactile perception and the ability to "crawl" on land, they have rudimentary gills for underwater breathing and modified swim bladders acting as paired lungs. Lungfish employ aestivation by forming a mucous cocoon to endure dry seasons, with the ability to remain motionless for years in this state. These hardy fish have unique adaptations, including tooth enamel, a distinct heart structure with four chambers, and similar bone arrangements to tetrapods. They are long-lived, requiring large tanks and cautious handling due to their potential to deliver severe bites.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Slender Lungfish, a minimum tank size of 1060 liters is essential, with minimal water movement and dim lighting. Decor should include roots, branches, or rocks for cover, ensuring they are secure to prevent escapes, as Lungfish are known to do so given the chance. A sandy or muddy substrate is beneficial but not mandatory. The tank cover should have no gaps and be positioned about 6 inches above the water surface to allow the fish access to atmospheric air.

Behaviour

Best kept solitary, Lungfish are unpredictable and prone to aggressiveness towards tank mates, often biting them suddenly. They are incompatible with their kind and should not be housed in a community tank. Lungfish can display territorial behavior and are known for turning on other fish without warning, making them risky additions to shared aquariums.

Feeding and Diet

Slender Lungfish are omnivorous, consuming fish, invertebrates, amphibians, and plant matter. In captivity, they can be fed a variety of foods like prawn, mussels, lancefish, algae wafers, and whole fish such as trout or sprats. These fish do not require feeding daily and can adapt to different food sources.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Reproduction of Slender Lungfish has not been achieved in captivity, with males protecting nests where eggs are deposited until hatching. No external differences between male and female Lungfish are currently known.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, Protopterus Dolloi inhabit temporary floodplains, rivers, swamps, marshes, and backwaters of countries like the Central African Republic, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, and Angola. They have developed unique survival techniques for seasonal waters, making them intriguing species to observe in aquarium settings.