Description

Saddled Bichir (Polypterus endlicheri)

The Saddled Bichir, scientifically known as Polypterus endlicheri, is a truly ancient and fascinating freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby. Belonging to the Polypteridae family, these “living fossils” are renowned for their elongated, armoured bodies, distinctive dorsal finlets, and unique appearance, reminiscent of prehistoric creatures. They make a captivating and impressive addition to large, dedicated aquariums.

Origin and Habitat

Saddled Bichirs are native to the slow-moving, often murky rivers, floodplains, and swamps of West and Central Africa, particularly found in countries like Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Congo Basin. Their natural habitat is characterised by dense vegetation, submerged roots, and leaf litter, providing plenty of hiding spots. They are accustomed to soft to moderately hard, acidic to neutral water conditions. As facultative air-breathers, they possess primitive lungs that allow them to gulp atmospheric air, enabling them to survive in low-oxygen environments.

Appearance and Characteristics

The Saddled Bichir typically grows to a substantial size of 20-30 inches (50-75 cm) in length, though some individuals may reach slightly larger sizes in very spacious aquariums. Its most distinctive features are:

• Body Shape: An elongated, snake-like, cylindrical body covered in thick, rhomboid ganoid scales, forming a protective armour.
• Dorsal Finlets: A series of separate, spiny dorsal finlets (typically 11-14, but can vary) running along its back, giving it a unique, segmented appearance.
• Pectoral Fins: Large, fleshy, and paddle-like pectoral fins located just behind the head, which they use for propulsion and “walking” along the substrate.
• Colouration: A base colour ranging from grey to olive green or brown, adorned with several prominent, dark, irregular vertical bands or “saddles” across its back and flanks. These markings provide excellent camouflage.
• Eyes: Small, often gold-rimmed eyes.

Bichirs are incredibly long-lived fish, often surviving for 15-20 years or more in a well-maintained aquarium, making them a significant long-term commitment.

Behaviour and Temperament

Saddled Bichirs are generally peaceful but predatory fish. They are primarily nocturnal or crepuscular (most active during dusk and dawn), spending much of the day resting among decor. They are bottom-dwellers, often seen “walking” on their pectoral fins or resting on the substrate.

While not overtly aggressive, they will readily consume any fish small enough to fit into their mouths, making tank mate selection crucial. They can be kept individually or in groups of their own species in a sufficiently large tank. When kept in groups, a minimum of three is often recommended to spread out any potential minor squabbles.

Suitable tank mates are similarly sized or larger, robust fish that are not aggressive and will not be viewed as prey. Good companions include large, peaceful South American cichlids (e.g., adult Oscars, Severums), large characins (e.g., Silver Dollars), larger gouramis, and various large, peaceful catfish (e.g., Plecos, Synodontis). Avoid housing them with very small fish, aggressive fish, or fin-nipping species.

Aquarium Requirements

Due to their large adult size, significant bioload, and unique behaviours, Saddled Bichirs require specific and spacious aquarium conditions:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 450 litres is recommended for a single adult Saddled Bichir. For a pair or a small group, a tank of 750 litres or larger is highly recommended to ensure ample swimming space and prevent stunting. A longer tank footprint (e.g., 6ft or 8ft) is more beneficial than a tall one, as they are bottom-dwellers.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 23-27°C (74-81°F) – consistent, warm temperatures are vital.
  • pH: 6.5-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral is preferred).
  • Hardness: 5-15 dGH (soft to moderately hard water).
• Filtration: Excellent and robust filtration is paramount to manage their significant bioload. A powerful canister filter or multiple large hang-on-back filters providing strong mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration are necessary. Regular, large water changes (25-50% weekly) are also vital to maintain pristine water quality.
• Substrate: A fine sand or smooth gravel substrate is ideal, as Bichirs enjoy sifting through it and it is gentle on their delicate undersides. Avoid sharp or coarse materials that could injure them.
• Lighting: Dim to moderate lighting is preferred, as they are naturally found in shaded, often murky environments. This encourages them to be more active.
• Decor: Provide plenty of hiding spots, caves, and tunnels using large pieces of driftwood, PVC pipes, and smooth rocks. Arrange decor to create numerous nooks and crannies where they can retreat and feel secure. Live plants are generally not recommended as they may uproot them, but very hardy, robust species like Anubias or Java Fern attached to decor might survive. A tight-fitting, heavy lid is absolutely essential, as Bichirs are notorious escape artists and can push lids open.

Diet

Saddled Bichirs are carnivorous, primarily feeding on insects, crustaceans, and smaller fish in the wild. A high-quality, varied diet is essential for their health, growth, and vitality in the aquarium.

• Primary Diet: High-quality sinking pellets or wafers specifically formulated for carnivorous bottom-dwelling fish.
• Supplements: Offer a variety of live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, chopped earthworms, and occasional pieces of lean fish (e.g., white fish fillets).
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once a day, or small amounts twice a day, preferably after the main lights are off, as they are nocturnal feeders.

Breeding

Breeding Saddled Bichirs in a home aquarium is extremely challenging and rarely achieved. They are egg-layers, and their complex breeding habits in the wild, which involve specific environmental cues and large spaces, are very difficult to replicate in captivity. Most Bichirs available in the aquarium trade are wild-caught.

Common Health Issues

Saddled Bichirs are generally hardy once established but can be susceptible to common freshwater fish diseases, particularly if water quality is poor or they are stressed. They are sensitive to poor water parameters, especially high nitrates. Maintaining pristine water quality, stable parameters, a balanced diet, and a stress-free environment are key to preventing illness. Their armoured bodies make them relatively resistant to external parasites like Ich, but they can still be affected.

Conclusion

The Saddled Bichir is a truly magnificent, ancient, and captivating species that can bring an unparalleled sense of prehistoric wonder to a large, well-maintained aquarium. Its distinctive appearance, unique locomotion, and fascinating behaviours make it a rewarding fish for the dedicated aquarist. With proper care, ample space, and diligent attention to their specific water parameter and dietary needs, these long-lived fish can thrive and become a cherished and intriguing inhabitant of your aquatic world for many years.