The Endlicheri Bichir (Polypterus endlicheri), also known as the Saddled Bichir, is a fascinating species of freshwater fish native to parts of Africa. Its distinctive appearance and primitive features make it a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts.

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Endlicheri Bichirs are among the largest in the bichir family, capable of reaching lengths up to 30 inches (75 cm).

  Fishkeeping World

   

• Appearance: They have an elongated, eel-like body with a series of dorsal finlets and a unique "saddled" pattern of dark vertical bands against a lighter background. Their lower jaw protrudes slightly beyond the upper, a characteristic feature of this species.

Natural Habitat:

Endlicheri Bichirs inhabit slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and swampy areas in Africa, particularly within the Nile and Congo River basins. They prefer environments with muddy or silty substrates and abundant vegetation, which provide ample hiding spots.

Behavior and Temperament:

• Activity: Primarily nocturnal, these bichirs are more active during the night, often resting during daylight hours.

• Temperament: Generally peaceful, they can coexist with similarly sized, non-aggressive tank mates. However, due to their predatory nature, smaller fish may be at risk.

Aquarium Care:

• Tank Size: A spacious aquarium is essential, with a minimum size of 90 gallons to accommodate their potential growth.

  Fish Laboratory

   

• Water Parameters: Maintain temperatures between 72-82°F (22-28°C), pH levels of 6.0-8.0, and water hardness between 5-25 dGH.

  Aquarium API

   

• Substrate and Decor: Provide a soft substrate, such as sand, along with hiding spots like caves, driftwood, and dense vegetation to mimic their natural habitat.

• Filtration: Efficient filtration is crucial to maintain water quality, as these fish produce significant waste.

Diet:

Endlicheri Bichirs are carnivorous, feeding on a diet of live or frozen foods such as fish, shrimp, worms, and insects. It's important to ensure that their food is appropriately sized to prevent choking.

Compatibility:

Suitable tank mates include other large, peaceful fish species. Avoid housing them with small fish to prevent predation.

Lifespan:

With proper care, Endlicheri Bichirs can live up to 15 years in captivity.

Special Considerations:

• Lid Security: Ensure the aquarium has a tight-fitting lid, as bichirs are known to be escape artists.

• Oxygen Access: They possess a primitive lung, allowing them to breathe atmospheric air. It's essential to provide access to the water surface.

Endlicheri Bichirs are intriguing additions to large freshwater aquariums, offering a glimpse into ancient fish lineages. Their care requires attention to tank size, water quality, and diet to ensure a healthy and thriving specimen.

The Endlicheri Bichir (Polypterus endlicheri), also known as the Saddled Bichir, is a fascinating species of freshwater fish native to parts of Africa. Its distinctive appearance and primitive features make it a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts.

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Endlicheri Bichirs are among the largest in the bichir family, capable of reaching lengths up to 30 inches (75 cm).

  Fishkeeping World

   

• Appearance: They have an elongated, eel-like body with a series of dorsal finlets and a unique "saddled" pattern of dark vertical bands against a lighter background. Their lower jaw protrudes slightly beyond the upper, a characteristic feature of this species.

Natural Habitat:

Endlicheri Bichirs inhabit slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and swampy areas in Africa, particularly within the Nile and Congo River basins. They prefer environments with muddy or silty substrates and abundant vegetation, which provide ample hiding spots.

Behavior and Temperament:

• Activity: Primarily nocturnal, these bichirs are more active during the night, often resting during daylight hours.

• Temperament: Generally peaceful, they can coexist with similarly sized, non-aggressive tank mates. However, due to their predatory nature, smaller fish may be at risk.

Aquarium Care:

• Tank Size: A spacious aquarium is essential, with a minimum size of 90 gallons to accommodate their potential growth.

  Fish Laboratory

   

• Water Parameters: Maintain temperatures between 72-82°F (22-28°C), pH levels of 6.0-8.0, and water hardness between 5-25 dGH.

  Aquarium API

   

• Substrate and Decor: Provide a soft substrate, such as sand, along with hiding spots like caves, driftwood, and dense vegetation to mimic their natural habitat.

• Filtration: Efficient filtration is crucial to maintain water quality, as these fish produce significant waste.

Diet:

Endlicheri Bichirs are carnivorous, feeding on a diet of live or frozen foods such as fish, shrimp, worms, and insects. It's important to ensure that their food is appropriately sized to prevent choking.

Compatibility:

Suitable tank mates include other large, peaceful fish species. Avoid housing them with small fish to prevent predation.

Lifespan:

With proper care, Endlicheri Bichirs can live up to 15 years in captivity.

Special Considerations:

• Lid Security: Ensure the aquarium has a tight-fitting lid, as bichirs are known to be escape artists.

• Oxygen Access: They possess a primitive lung, allowing them to breathe atmospheric air. It's essential to provide access to the water surface.

Endlicheri Bichirs are intriguing additions to large freshwater aquariums, offering a glimpse into ancient fish lineages. Their care requires attention to tank size, water quality, and diet to ensure a healthy and thriving specimen.