🐟 Customer Spotlight: Kevin’s Bichir Adventures & Aquascaping Dreams 🌿🏔️
One of the most rewarding parts of what we do at Fallen Apple is hearing from passionate customers who are building their dream tanks. Recently, we got to connect with Kevin, an aquarist from a remote Alaskan village, who’s been creating a one-of-a-kind aquatic setup featuring Bichirs, Tiger Shovelnose Catfish, and a growing collection of driftwood and rocks. His journey is full of surprises, creativity, and a whole lot of fishy personalities! 🐾
The Accidental Senegal Bichirs 🐠
Originally, Kevin ordered Saddled Bichirs, but what he received were Senegal Bichirs instead. What could have been a disappointment turned into an unexpected delight. These Bichirs quickly made themselves at home, and Kevin couldn’t help but notice their distinct personalities.
"One of them loves hanging out in floating fake plants—I always find him chilling there when I walk into the room. The other one is a bit more aggressive and always fights for the cod when I throw it into the tank." 🍤
Natural Aquascaping & Powerhead Currents 🌿🌊
Kevin’s tank setup is inspired by natural streams. He’s been collecting driftwood and rocks from his travels to create a habitat that resembles where these fish might be found in the wild. To complete the effect, he added a powerhead to simulate a strong current for the current-loving fish.
"I tried to set up something that would look like a stream. I’d love to eventually build a multi-level tank with waterfalls for Hillstream Loaches and Gobies."
Kevin is also part of a Facebook group called “Crazy Sons of Bichirs”, where he gets inspiration and new ideas for his tank setups.
Feeding Time: Cod, Shrimp & More 🍽️
Feeding time is a highlight for Kevin’s fish—and a bit of a competition! His Bichirs and Tiger Shovelnose Catfish enjoy a diet of thawed cod, white shrimp, and sinking cichlid pellets.
"I tend to overfeed to make sure everyone gets some food. With all the plants, driftwood, and rocks in the tank, cleanup can be a challenge. I do a big cleaning every week." 🧹
What’s Next for Kevin? 🏡
Kevin’s next big project is a 270-gallon pool pond for his Bichirs and other large, oddball fish like Knifefish. He’s also picking up mangrove starter plants and more driftwood to add to his aquascape. His goal is to expand his Bichir collection and raise new species like Polypterus lapradei, Polypterus ansorgii, and Polypterus teugelsi—all at the same size so they can grow together.
Thank You, Kevin! 🙌
Kevin’s story is a great example of how creativity and passion can turn any challenge into an exciting project. We can’t wait to see how his 270-gallon pool pond turns out and look forward to hearing more updates!
📸 Have a setup or story to share? We’d love to feature you in our next customer spotlight! Send us your photos and details, and you could be next on the blog! rob@fallenapple.net
