Tiger Bichir (Polypterus endlicherii) Powerful, prehistoric and unmistakably impressive, the Tiger Bichir is a large African predator recognised by its broad head, armoured body and bold saddle-like markings. Its ancient appearance and deliberate hunting behaviour make it an extraordinary feature fish for experienced aquarists with suitably large aquariums. Quick Facts Scientific name: Polypterus endlicherii Common name: Tiger Bichir, Saddled Bichir, Endlicheri Bichir Current size: Please refer to the selected size option Adult size: Approximately 60–75 cm Tank size: 600L+ recommended for adults Difficulty: 🔴 Advanced Temperament: Predatory but generally calm with suitably sized fish Social needs: Can be kept individually or with compatible large fish Is this for you? ✔️ Perfect if: You want a dramatic prehistoric-looking feature fish. You have a very large aquarium with substantial floor space. You can provide a secure, tightly fitted aquarium lid. You understand that any fish small enough to swallow may be treated as food. ❌ Avoid if: You have a small or medium-sized community aquarium. You keep small fish, shrimp, snails or other bite-sized tank mates. You cannot accommodate its considerable adult size. Your aquarium has openings through which the fish could escape. Why choose a Tiger Bichir? The Tiger Bichir is one of the most impressive members of the ancient Polypteridae family. Its heavy body, broad flattened head and bold vertical saddles create an appearance that looks more like a prehistoric reptile than a conventional aquarium fish. Bichirs possess a modified swim bladder that functions much like a lung, allowing them to rise to the surface and breathe atmospheric air. Watching a Tiger Bichir patrol the aquarium floor before surfacing for air is one of the behaviours that makes this species so fascinating. Although generally slow-moving and not needlessly aggressive, the Tiger Bichir is an opportunistic predator. Tank mates must be robust, peaceful and far too large to fit inside its mouth. Its eventual adult size must be carefully considered before purchase. Benefits Striking prehistoric appearance Bold tiger-like saddle markings Fascinating air-breathing behaviour Intelligent and responsive at feeding time Long-lived when properly maintained Outstanding centrepiece for a large predator aquarium Care made simple Temperature: 24–28°C pH: 6.5–7.8 Diet: Carnivorous sinking pellets, prawns, mussels, earthworms, fish flesh and suitable frozen foods Water: Clean, stable and well filtered with moderate circulation Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to protect the underside of the fish Setup: Large footprint, open floor space, sturdy driftwood and secure shaded shelters Use a tightly fitted and weighted lid, as Bichirs are powerful escape artists. Always maintain access to the water's surface so the fish can breathe atmospheric air. Avoid feeding mammalian or poultry meat, which is poorly suited to its digestive system. Pairs perfectly with Large peaceful Severums Adult Silver Dollars Large Synodontis Catfish Oscar Cichlids of compatible temperament Other similarly sized Bichirs NTA Insight: The Tiger Bichir is frequently sold as a manageable juvenile, but its eventual adult size is substantial. Aquarium length and floor area matter more than height because this species spends most of its time along the bottom. Plan for the adult fish from the beginning and never assume that tank mates are safe simply because they appear too large to eat—the Tiger Bichir has a surprisingly wide mouth. FAQ How large does a Tiger Bichir grow? Tiger Bichirs can reach approximately 60–75 cm as adults. Their large eventual size means they require a substantial aquarium with generous floor space and strong filtration. Is the Tiger Bichir aggressive? It is generally calm toward fish it cannot consume, but it is a natural predator. Small and slender tank mates may be hunted, particularly after the aquarium lights are turned off. Can it live with small fish? No. Any fish that can fit inside the Bichir's mouth should be considered potential prey. Tank mates must be large-bodied, robust and compatible in temperament. Does a Tiger Bichir need to breathe air? Yes. Bichirs possess a specialised respiratory organ that allows them to breathe atmospheric air. The aquarium must always provide unobstructed access to the surface. Why does the aquarium need a secure lid? Bichirs are powerful escape artists that can push through surprisingly small openings. A tightly fitted, weighted lid should cover all gaps around filters, cables and plumbing. Can multiple Bichirs be kept together? Yes, similarly sized Bichirs can often coexist when the aquarium is sufficiently large and offers multiple shelters. Avoid combining individuals with a major size difference, as the smaller fish may be attacked or swallowed. What should I feed a Tiger Bichir? Offer a varied carnivorous diet consisting of quality sinking predator pellets, prawns, mussels, earthworms and suitable frozen fish foods. Feeder fish are unnecessary and may introduce parasites or disease. How long do Tiger Bichirs live? With a suitably large aquarium, excellent water quality and balanced nutrition, Tiger Bichirs may live for 15–20 years or longer.
