Description
Endlicheri Bichir (Polypterus endlicheri endlicheri)
📌 Basic Info
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Scientific Name: Polypterus endlicheri endlicheri
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Common Name: Endlicheri Bichir / Saddled Bichir / Dinosaur Eel
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Size: 24 – 30 inches (60 – 75 cm)
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Lifespan: 15 – 20 years
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Tank Zone: Bottom (sometimes mid at night)
🌊 Water Parameters
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TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): 150 – 300 ppm
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pH: 6.2 – 7.5
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Temperature: 24°C – 28°C (75°F – 82°F)
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Water Type: Freshwater, soft to moderately hard
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Hardness: GH 5 – 15, KH 3 – 8
🐟 Characteristics
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Very large and powerful bichir with a broad head and thick body.
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Olive to brown body with darker band-like markings.
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Hardy, predatory, and nocturnal.
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Primitive fish – has both gills and a lung-like organ, so it can breathe air.
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Requires very large aquariums due to size.
🍽️ Food
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Type: Carnivorous predator
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Diet: Live/frozen foods like shrimp, fish fillets, worms, prawns, and sinking carnivore pellets.
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Feeding Frequency: Once daily (juveniles 1–2 times/day).
🛠️ Maintenance
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Tank Size: Minimum 180 gallons (680 L) for an adult.
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Strong filtration with moderate flow.
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Weekly water change: 20–25%.
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Provide sand or fine gravel substrate, rocks, and caves.
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Must have a tight-fitting lid → excellent jumpers.
👥 Social Behavior
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Minimum Group Size: Can be kept singly or with other large bichirs in very big tanks.
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Tank Mates: Other large semi-aggressive species – arowanas, large cichlids, datnoids, big catfish.
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Avoid: Small or medium fish → will be eaten.
✅ Do’s
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Keep them in very large, covered tanks.
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Provide meaty, protein-rich diet.
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Create hiding places with caves and driftwood.
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Use dim lighting for natural behavior.
❌ Don’ts
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Don’t keep with small fish or shrimp.
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Don’t house in tanks under 180 gallons.
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Don’t leave tank open – strong jumpers.
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Don’t feed only pellets – needs varied diet.
⭐ Quick Tips
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One of the largest and most impressive bichirs.
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Prehistoric appearance – very popular among monster fish keepers.
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Best suited for experienced aquarists with big aquariums.
