(32) Endlicheri bichir 2-3''

The Endlicheri bichir (Polypterus endlicherii), also known as the saddled bichir or dinosaur eel, is a large, predatory, and primitive freshwater fish from Africa. Known for its impressive size and banded coloration, it is a fascinating and demanding fish best suited for experienced keepers with a very large aquarium

• Coloration: The body is typically gray, tan, or greenish with 7 to 11 dark, vertical bands that create a "saddled" effect. The pattern can vary significantly between individuals.
• Size: The Endlicheri bichir is one of the larger species of bichir. In captivity, it can realistically reach 18 to 24 inches in length, though it can grow larger in the wild.
• Lower jaw: It has a distinctive lower jaw that protrudes past the upper jaw.
• Physical features: Like all bichirs, it has a primitive, armored appearance with a series of dorsal finlets and a pair of primitive, fleshy pectoral fins. It also possesses a modified lung that allows it to breathe atmospheric air. 

• Tank size: Due to its potential size, a minimum tank size of 90 to 180 gallons is required for a mature Endlicheri bichir. The footprint of the tank is more important than the height, as they are bottom-dwelling fish.
• Water parameters: They are a hardy species that can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, but stability is key.
  • Temperature: 75–82°F (23–28°C).
  • pH: 6.2–7.8.
• Substrate: A soft, sandy substrate is necessary, as large gravel can be accidentally ingested during feeding and cause impaction.
• Decor: Provide plenty of hiding spots with driftwood, large rocks, and thick vegetation. Bichirs are nocturnal and appreciate cover.
• Lid: A tight-fitting, heavy lid is absolutely essential, as bichirs are known for their ability to escape from aquariums. 

• Carnivorous: Endlicheri bichirs are carnivores that prefer meaty, protein-rich foods.
• Nocturnal feeding: Since they are nocturnal, feeding them after dark or in low light is often most effective.
• Food variety: Offer a varied diet of live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, earthworms, shrimp, krill, and chopped fish fillet. High-quality, sinking carnivore pellets can also be accepted. 

• Predatory but peaceful: Despite their fearsome looks, Endlicheri bichirs are generally peaceful toward fish too large to swallow. They are, however, opportunistic predators and will eat any smaller fish that can fit into their mouth.
• Tank mates:
  • Compatible: Suitable tank mates include other large, robust, and non-aggressive fish like large cichlids, other larger bichirs, and large catfish.
  • Incompatible: Avoid keeping them with any fish small enough to be considered prey, such as small tetras, guppies, and shrimp.