African Lungfish (Protopterus annectens) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 125 gallons and 75-86°F. An eel-like air-breathing fish that grows far longer than juveniles in the store suggest. It can escape through small gaps and eats any fish it can swallow, so it needs a long tank with a heavy lid and an air gap above the water.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Protopterus annectens |
|---|---|
| Family | Protopteridae |
| Origin | Africa |
| Adult size | 12-30 in |
| Minimum tank | 125 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-86°F |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Temperament | Predatory, aggressive toward tankmates |
| Social behavior | Solitary |
| Swim level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Carnivore: shrimp, earthworms, chunks of fish, sinking carnivore pellets |
| Typical lifespan | 10-20+ years |
Quick tips
- Secure the lid; it climbs and escapes.
- Leave an air gap so it can breathe at the surface.
- Keep alone or with fish too large to eat.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi