Saddled Bichir (Polypterus endlicheri)
Fish in the family Polypteridae. Hard care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific namePolypterus endlicheri
FamilyPolypteridae
Also known asEndlicheri Bichir, Saddle Bichir
Care levelHard
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi-aggressive
DietCarnivore
Adult size30 in
Minimum tank size180 gallons
Water parametersTemp 76-84°F, pH 6.2-8.0, GH 5-20 dGH
Appearance
Heavy bodied with a broad blunt head, protruding upper jaw, and dark saddle-like blotches over a grey-yellow ground; thick ganoid armor.
Difficulty and care for the Saddled Bichir
Hard
Origin and habitat
Africa (Nile and West/Central Africa)
Keeper notes
A true monster bichir reaching 2.5ft with an upper jaw that lets it eat surprisingly large fish; will consume any tankmate it can engulf. Needs a very large tank and sturdy companions. Powerful jumper requiring a locked lid.
Log Saddled Bichir in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Saddled Bichir alongside everything else in your reef.
