Tiger Bichir
Polypterus endlicheri endlicheri
 
The Tiger Bichir is a large, bottom-dwelling predator native to the slow-moving rivers, swamps, and floodplains of Central and West Africa. Recognized for its thick, scale-armored body and distinctive "saddled" striping, this species is also known as the Saddled Bichir or Endlicheri Bichir. It is a subspecies of Polypterus endlicheri and is one of the most robust and prehistoric-looking fish available in the aquarium trade.
With the ability to breathe atmospheric air and survive in low-oxygen environments, Tiger Bichirs are hardy and adaptable, but they require a large tank and a secure lid. These fish are best kept with large, peaceful tankmates and are not suitable for community tanks with smaller fish.
 
Species Overview
Common Name: Tiger Bichir
Scientific Name: Polypterus endlicheri endlicheri
Origin: Central and West Africa
Maximum Size: Up to 75 cm in the wild; typically 40–50 cm in aquariums
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
Temperament: Semi-aggressive; opportunistic predator
Activity: Mostly nocturnal; bottom-dweller
Compatibility: Best kept with large, slow-moving fish that won’t fit in its mouth
 
Aquarium Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 300 litres for juveniles; 500 litres or more for adults
Substrate: Sand or soft gravel
Décor: Large rocks, driftwood, and hiding spaces; low lighting preferred
Plants: Hardy or floating plants are suitable
Lighting: Dim to moderate
Filtration: Strong filtration with gentle flow
Tank Cover: Essential – Tiger Bichirs can jump and breathe air
 
Water Parameters
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 6.5–7.8
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
Water Movement: Gentle current preferred
 
Diet
Diet Type: Carnivorous
Preferred Foods: Frozen or live bloodworms, shrimp, mussels, chopped fish, sinking carnivore pellets
Feeding Frequency: Feed once or twice daily
Feeding Tips: Best fed at night or just before lights out
 
Breeding
Breeding in captivity is very rare
They are egg-scatterers and provide no parental care
Breeding requires large, species-specific setups with seasonal cues
Males develop broader anal fins during breeding season
 
Care Summary
Care Level: Intermediate to advanced
Temperament: Semi-aggressive, predatory
Adult Size: Up to 50 cm in aquariums
Tank Size: Minimum 300–500+ litres
Water Temperature: 24–28°C
pH Range: 6.5–7.8
 
Diet: Carnivore – meaty foods, sinking pellets
Breeding: Rare in captivity
Tankmates: Large, peaceful fish only – avoid small or aggressive species
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