Description
Saddled Bichir – Primitive Predator with Unique Markings
(Polypterus endlicheri endlicheri)
The Saddled Bichir, also known as the Endlicheri Bichir, is a fascinating and ancient freshwater species prized for its dinosaur-like appearance and bold, saddled patterning. With a broad head, powerful body, and rows of dorsal finlets, this bottom-dwelling predator brings a prehistoric charm to any large aquarium. Its distinct black saddle markings contrast beautifully against a creamy yellow to olive base.
Key Features:
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Bold black “saddle” patterns across the back and sides
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Hardy and long-lived with proper care
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Air-breathing ability allows survival in low-oxygen environments
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Peaceful toward large tankmates, but predatory toward small fish
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Adds an exotic, ancient aesthetic to any large aquarium
Care Information:
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Scientific Name: Polypterus endlicheri endlicheri
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Adult Size: Up to 60 cm (24 inches)
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Minimum Tank Size: 300 litres or larger
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Temperature: 24–28°C
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pH Range: 6.5–7.8
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Diet: Carnivorous – prefers sinking pellets, meaty frozen foods (prawns, fish, earthworms)
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Tank Setup: Sand or smooth gravel substrate, ample hiding spots, tight-fitting lid (they are escape artists)
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Compatibility: Best kept with other large, non-aggressive fish
Why Choose the Saddled Bichir?
With its impressive size, striking pattern, and unique anatomy, the Saddled Bichir is a standout species for experienced aquarists. Whether you're creating a predator tank or simply looking for a showstopping bottom-dweller, this bichir brings motion, mystery, and character to your aquarium.
Click & Collect
Livestock will only be bagged once you arrive, or if you contact us in advance to request it ready beforehand.
Local Delivery
Order anything from our in-store range and have it delivered right to you.
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Minimum spend: £50
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Delivery up to 10 miles: £10
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Delivery up to 25 miles: £20
Distances are measured “as the crow flies”, not by road.
Once your order is placed, we’ll be in touch to arrange a suitable delivery date and time.
Please note, delivery may take a little longer as we often group orders together to build an efficient delivery run.
Important: If you’re ordering a large aquarium, please ensure someone is available to help unload the van on arrival.
Dry Goods Delivery
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DPD Next Day: 1 working day (order before 12 noon)
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DX Next Day (Heavy Items & Small Aquariums): 1 working day (order before 12 noon)
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Express Pallet: 1–3 working days
If you'd like to add more items to an existing order that hasn't yet been dispatched, please place a Click & Collect order and leave a note asking us to combine the orders.
Please note: We currently only dispatch parcels Wednesday to Friday.
Pre-Order
Want the full details? Check out our Terms & Conditions.
Livestock Delivery
Thursday Delivery – £24
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Dispatched Wednesday afternoon
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Delivered Thursday before 1pm
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Order by Wednesday 12 noon
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Minimum spend: £50
Friday Delivery – £24
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Dispatched Thursday afternoon
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Delivered Friday before 1pm
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Order by Thursday 12 noon
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Minimum spend: £50
Saturday Delivery – £29
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Dispatched Friday afternoon
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Delivered Saturday before 1pm
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Order by Friday 12 noon
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Minimum spend: £50
📦 Want to Add to an Existing Order?
No problem! Just place a Click & Collect order and leave a note asking us to link it with your original one (as long as it hasn’t been dispatched yet).
🛒 Dry Goods Now Included!
You can now include dry goods in your livestock delivery – perfect for topping up supplies in one go.
❄️ Please note: We can’t send frozen food with livestock – please order frozen items separately.
⚠️ Delivery Exclusions
Unfortunately, we’re unable to deliver livestock to the following postcodes:
Scotland & Isles:
AB30–AB56, DD8–DD10, DG3–DG9, DG12–DG14, FK17–FK21, KA18–KA19, KA26–KA30, PA20–PA38, PA80, PH3–PH40
Cornwall Isles: TR21–TR25
All of the following postcodes are excluded:
BT, HS, IM, IV, JE, KW
Plus Channel Islands and Shetland Islands
Payment & Security
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