Tank setup
A minimum 700L aquarium suits Endlicheri Bichir. Match décor to natural behaviour — plants, rockwork, or open swimming room as needed.
Polypterus endlicheri
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What to know before you buy.
The Endlicheri Bichir, commonly known as the Saddled Bichir, is one of the largest and most sought-after members of the ancient Polypteridae family. This "living fossil" has remained virtually unchanged for over 96 million years. Its elongated, serpentine body is covered in distinctive ganoid scales, and its unique lung-like swim bladder allows it to breathe atmospheric air. With its distinctive saddle-band patterning and prehistoric appearance, it is the crown jewel of many monster fish collections.
Key traits
Select a tank to see how this species fits.
Everything you need to keep Endlicheri Bichir healthy in a South African setup.
A minimum 700L aquarium suits Endlicheri Bichir. Match décor to natural behaviour — plants, rockwork, or open swimming room as needed.
Keep pH 6–8 and 24–30°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers — acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Endlicheri Bichir is carnivore. Feed a varied diet appropriate for monster fish — quality flakes, pellets, or frozen foods sized to the mouth.
Endlicheri Bichir is generally semi-aggressive. Observe during feeding and at lights-out for true temperament.
Pair with similarly sized semi-aggressive tankmates in monster fish. Avoid fin-nippers or species that outgrow this fish.
Breeding notes for Endlicheri Bichir vary by line and water chemistry — ask your local shop about proven pairs in SA.
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Price tracking started 18 Jul 2026 — chart builds as listings are updated
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Species that typically work alongside Endlicheri Bichir in a similar setup.