Common Name: Endlicheri x Lapradei Bichir (Hybrid)
Scientific Name: Polypterus endlicheri x Polypterus lapradei
Other Names: Lapen Bichir
The Endlicheri x Lapradei Bichir is a hybrid between Polypterus endlicheri and Polypterus lapradei, combining traits from both parent species. It typically exhibits the robust, broad-headed structure of P. endlicheri with the elongated body and refined patterning of P. lapradei. These hybrids often display irregular dark banding or saddling patterns, with a mix of gold, tan, and brown coloration. As a bottom-dwelling predator, this hybrid retains the ancient, eel-like body and armored scales characteristic of bichirs, making it an impressive and sought-after species in the aquarium trade.
Habitat and Distribution:
As a man-made hybrid, the Endlicheri x Lapradei Bichir does not exist in the wild, but its parent species originate from slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and swampy environments in West and Central Africa. These habitats are warm, low in oxygen, and feature soft, muddy or sandy substrates with abundant vegetation and submerged logs. Like all bichirs, they have a modified swim bladder that allows them to breathe atmospheric air, enabling survival in low-oxygen environments.
Size and Lifespan:
This hybrid can reach sizes between 24-30 inches (60-75 cm) in optimal conditions, with growth rates depending on diet and tank size. In captivity, they can live for 15-20 years with proper care.
Diet and Behavior:
Like its parent species, the Endlicheri x Lapradei Bichir is a carnivorous ambush predator, feeding on fish, crustaceans, and insects in the wild. In captivity, their diet should include high-quality sinking carnivore pellets, frozen or live foods such as chopped raw tilapia, earthworms, bloodworms, and occasional supplementation with feeder fish (only from trusted, disease-free sources). They are generally nocturnal but will become more active during feeding time. While not overly aggressive, they may prey on smaller tank mates that fit in their mouths.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Bichirs are egg scatterers, but hybrid bichirs are rarely bred successfully in captivity. In general, breeding requires a spacious tank with soft, acidic water, dense plant cover, and seasonal water parameter changes to mimic rainy season conditions. Males chase and fertilize eggs externally, and the eggs are left to develop without parental care. Raising fry requires specialized feeding with live baby brine shrimp and microfoods.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 180 gallons is recommended for a full-grown specimen, with larger tanks preferred for multiple bichirs. Their ideal tank setup includes a soft sand substrate to prevent injury, driftwood and caves for shelter, strong but gentle filtration to maintain water quality, low to moderate water flow, and dim lighting with floating plants to mimic natural conditions. A secure lid is essential, as bichirs are strong jumpers and can escape from open tanks.
Ideal Tank Mates:
This hybrid is best kept with similarly sized, peaceful or semi-aggressive fish that will not fit in its mouth. Suitable tank mates include large cichlids (such as Oscars, Datnoids, and Peacock Bass), other large bichirs, arowanas, and larger catfish (such as Pimelodidae and Synodontis species). Avoid small fish, as they may be eaten, and extremely aggressive species that may stress or injure the bichir.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate to Advanced. They require large tanks, a protein-rich diet, and proper tank mate selection to thrive.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 6.5-7.8
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General Hardness (GH): 5-15 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 4-12 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- This hybrid often exhibits a mix of Endlicheri’s broad head and Lapradei’s elongated body.
- Like all bichirs, it has primitive lungs and will surface periodically to gulp air.
- Requires a secure tank lid, as bichirs are known to escape through small openings.
The Endlicheri x Lapradei Bichir is a rare and fascinating hybrid that combines the best traits of two popular bichir species. With proper care, it makes a stunning centerpiece for large, predator-friendly aquariums.
