One of the largest polypterus species with primitive lungs and an ancient appearance. A nocturnal predator for spacious tanks with a secure lid.
Overview
Polypterus endlicherii, also known as the Saddled Bichir or Endlicheri Bichir, is one of the largest members of the Polypteridae family. This remarkable species inhabits slow-moving rivers and lakes across West and Central Africa, favoring murky, silty areas with plenty of cover. In aquarium conditions, the fish reaches 50–75 cm in length and can live 15–20 years with proper care.
The Saddled Bichir is a true living fossil. Its body is covered in ganoid scales resembling bony armor, and characteristic dorsal finlets run along the entire back. Its most notable biological feature is a pair of primitive lungs that allow the fish to breathe atmospheric air. Thanks to this adaptation, P. endlicherii can survive in waters with extremely low oxygen levels. In your aquarium, you will regularly observe the fish rising to the surface for a gulp of air — this is completely normal behavior.
Despite its impressive size, the Saddled Bichir is relatively calm compared to other large species in the genus. It is predominantly nocturnal: hiding among decorations during the day and emerging at dusk to hunt, relying on its highly developed sense of smell.
Tank Requirements
Keeping Polypterus endlicherii requires a spacious aquarium of at least 300 liters. Given the fish's potential size, a tank of 400–500 liters with a large bottom footprint is optimal — for polypterus species, tank length and width matter more than height.
Optimal water parameters:
- Temperature: 24–28 °C
- pH: 6.5–8.0
- General Hardness (GH): 8–18 dGH
Use fine sand or rounded gravel as substrate — sharp particles can damage the fish's delicate belly. Be sure to provide ample hiding spots: driftwood, large-diameter ceramic pipes, and rock formations. During the day, the polypterus will spend most of its time in these shelters.
A tight-fitting lid is an absolute necessity. P. endlicherii is a notorious escape artist. Thanks to its ability to breathe air and powerful body, this fish can squeeze through even small gaps. All openings in the lid must be securely sealed.
Filtration should be powerful enough to handle the bioload of a large predatory fish, but the flow should be diffused — polypterus species prefer calm water. Subdued lighting works best, matching the nocturnal lifestyle of this species.
Feeding and Diet
Polypterus endlicherii is an obligate predator with a slow metabolism. In the wild, it feeds on small fish, crustaceans, insect larvae, and worms. In the aquarium, the diet should consist of:
- Large earthworms and nightcrawlers
- Frozen or fresh shrimp
- Pieces of lean fish (pollock, tilapia)
- Mussels and other seafood
- High-quality sinking pellets for predatory fish
Live food (feeder fish, river shrimp) can be offered as a supplement, but avoid overreliance on feeder fish due to the risk of introducing parasites.
Important: feed your polypterus 2–3 times per week, not daily. These fish have a slow metabolism, and overfeeding leads to obesity and liver problems. Portions should be moderate — the fish should consume its food within 5–10 minutes. Feeding is best done in the evening or after the lights are off, when the polypterus is most active.
Care and Maintenance
Polypterus endlicherii is a fairly hardy species, but ensuring a long and healthy life requires following certain guidelines. Regular water changes of 25–30% every 7–10 days will help maintain stable water quality. In larger tanks with powerful filtration, biweekly changes are acceptable.
Monitor water parameters with test kits: ammonia and nitrite levels should be zero, and nitrates should stay below 40 mg/L. Keep an eye on temperature, as sudden fluctuations can cause stress and weaken the immune system.
Pay attention to the condition of the fish's skin and scales. Polypterus species are susceptible to bacterial infections when kept in dirty water. If you notice cloudy patches, redness, or ulcers, perform an immediate water change and begin treatment.
Remember that P. endlicherii must have access to the water surface for breathing. Do not allow floating plants to completely cover the surface — leave open areas for the fish to gulp air.
Compatibility
Despite its predatory nature, the Saddled Bichir is a relatively peaceful aquarium inhabitant. It shows no aggression toward tank mates of comparable size, but any fish that fits in its mouth will inevitably be eaten.
Good tank mates for P. endlicherii include:
- Other polypterus species: Nile Bichir, Barred Bichir
- Large synodontis and other African catfish
- Large cichlids with a calm temperament
- Arowanas and knifefish of appropriate size
Do not keep small fish (tetras, barbs, guppies), shrimp, or other small invertebrates with this species — they will become food. Avoid aggressive and territorial species that could harm the slow-moving polypterus, especially its fins.
When keeping multiple polypterus together, provide each individual with a personal hiding spot and sufficient tank volume to prevent territorial competition.
Breeding
Breeding Polypterus endlicherii in captivity is a challenging endeavor that rarely succeeds, even for experienced aquarists. Spawning stimulation requires a spacious tank (500 liters or more) with soft, slightly acidic water and an elevated temperature of 27–28 °C.
During the breeding period, the male becomes more active and begins courting the female by wrapping his anal fin around hers, forming a cup-like structure to receive the eggs. The female deposits eggs in small batches among fine-leaved plants or on synthetic spawning mops.
After spawning, the parents must be removed, as they are prone to eating their own eggs. Incubation lasts 3–4 days at 26–28 °C. The newly hatched larvae initially feed on their yolk sac before transitioning to baby brine shrimp and microworms. Fry grow slowly and require clean water with minimal nitrogenous compounds.
The main challenge in breeding lies in finding a compatible pair and creating the right conditions to trigger spawning behavior. Seasonal temperature fluctuations and simulating the rainy season through frequent water changes with soft water can help initiate the process.