{"title":"Bichirs","description":"\u003cstyle\u003e\na {\n    text-decoration: none;\n    color: #464feb;\n}\ntr th, tr td {\n    border: 1px solid #e6e6e6;\n}\ntr th {\n    background-color: #f5f5f5;\n}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscover one of the most ancient and fascinating groups of freshwater fish with our \u003cstrong\u003eBichir Collection\u003c\/strong\u003e. Often referred to as \"living dinosaurs,\" Bichirs are renowned for their prehistoric appearance, armour-like scales, and distinctive eel-like movement. These remarkable fish have remained largely unchanged for millions of years, making them a truly unique addition to the modern aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBichirs are intelligent, hardy, and full of character, spending their time exploring the aquarium floor, investigating caves, and patrolling their territory. Their ability to breathe atmospheric air and their primitive appearance make them a favourite among monster fish keepers and aquarists looking for something extraordinary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're interested in the popular Senegal Bichir, ornate varieties, or larger showcase species, Bichirs offer a fascinating combination of history, personality, and presence. Best suited to spacious aquariums with secure lids and thoughtfully selected tank mates, they quickly become the centrepiece of any freshwater display.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt \u003cstrong\u003eThe Glass and Gill – Aquascape\u003c\/strong\u003e, our Bichir collection is carefully selected to provide healthy, high-quality specimens for aquarists seeking truly unique freshwater predators and prehistoric show fish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"senegal-bichir","title":"Senegal Bichir","description":"\u003cstyle\u003e\na {\n    text-decoration: none;\n    color: #464feb;\n}\ntr th, tr td {\n    border: 1px solid #e6e6e6;\n}\ntr th {\n    background-color: #f5f5f5;\n}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\na {\n    text-decoration: none;\n    color: #464feb;\n}\ntr th, tr td {\n    border: 1px solid #e6e6e6;\n}\ntr th {\n    background-color: #f5f5f5;\n}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eSenegal Bichir\u003c\/strong\u003e is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly species in the Bichir family, prized for its prehistoric appearance, hardy nature, and fascinating behaviour. Often referred to as a \"living dinosaur,\" this remarkable fish has remained largely unchanged for millions of years and brings a truly unique presence to the freshwater aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith its elongated body, armour-like scales, and distinctive row of dorsal finlets, the Senegal Bichir stands out from traditional aquarium fish. Slow-moving yet constantly curious, it spends much of its time exploring the bottom of the aquarium, investigating caves, driftwood, and hidden spaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike most fish, Senegal Bichirs possess a primitive lung-like organ that allows them to breathe atmospheric air. This unusual adaptation adds to their prehistoric charm and makes them one of the most interesting fish to observe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHardy, adaptable, and full of character, the Senegal Bichir is an excellent introduction to keeping larger predatory fish while remaining more manageable than many other monster fish species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy You'll Love Them\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFascinating prehistoric appearance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHardy and beginner-friendly for a predator species\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUnique air-breathing behaviour\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePeaceful with appropriately sized tank mates\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFull of personality and curiosity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExcellent centrepiece fish for larger aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCare Requirements\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTank Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 200L+ (larger for adults)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24–28°C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 6.5–7.8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Carnivorous – sinking pellets, earthworms, shrimp, frozen foods, and protein-rich foods\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDifficulty:\u003c\/strong\u003e Easy to Moderate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBehaviour \u0026amp; Compatibility\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSenegal Bichirs are generally peaceful predators that spend most of their time near the substrate or exploring the aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuitable tank mates include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeverums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSilver Dollars\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarger Barbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRainbowfish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarger Gouramis\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSynodontis Catfish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOther peaceful Bichirs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid keeping them with very small fish or shrimp, as anything that fits into their mouth may eventually become food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAquascaping Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSenegal Bichirs thrive in aquariums with soft substrate, driftwood, caves, and shaded areas where they can rest and explore. While they appreciate structure and hiding spots, they also require open areas for movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003esecure-fitting lid is essential\u003c\/strong\u003e, as Bichirs are well-known escape artists and can squeeze through surprisingly small openings when motivated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTheir natural colours and unique body shape look especially striking in Amazonian and large freshwater community setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Glass And Gill","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53672074707238,"sku":"PT-0005","price":385.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1019\/9810\/0774\/files\/eshwater_20_cca9a930-3289-4228-becf-bc3550f45bf9.png?v=1786526412"},{"product_id":"ornate-bichir","title":"Ornate Bichir","description":"\u003cstyle\u003e\na {\n    text-decoration: none;\n    color: #464feb;\n}\ntr th, tr td {\n    border: 1px solid #e6e6e6;\n}\ntr th {\n    background-color: #f5f5f5;\n}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eOrnate Bichir\u003c\/strong\u003e is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and impressive species in the Bichir family. With its striking black and yellow patterning, armoured scales, and prehistoric appearance, this magnificent freshwater predator quickly becomes the centrepiece of any large aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOften referred to as a \"living dinosaur,\" the Ornate Bichir has changed very little over millions of years. Its elongated body, distinctive dorsal finlets, and intricate markings give it a truly ancient appearance while its calm, methodical movements make it fascinating to observe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite its intimidating look, the Ornate Bichir is generally a peaceful predator when housed with appropriately sized tank mates. Intelligent, hardy, and full of personality, it spends its time exploring the aquarium floor, investigating caves and driftwood, and patiently patrolling its territory.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs one of the larger Bichir species, the Ornate Bichir is best suited to experienced aquarists with spacious aquariums capable of accommodating its impressive adult size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy You'll Love Them\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStunning black and yellow ornamental patterning\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne of the most sought-after Bichir species\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFascinating prehistoric appearance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntelligent and full of character\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExcellent centrepiece fish for large aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHardy and long-lived when properly cared for\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCare Requirements\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTank Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 500L+ (larger for adult specimens)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24–28°C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 6.5–7.8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Carnivorous – sinking carnivore pellets, earthworms, shrimp, fish fillets, and frozen foods\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDifficulty:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBehaviour \u0026amp; Compatibility\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrnate Bichirs are generally peaceful toward similarly sized fish but remain opportunistic predators.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuitable tank mates include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSilver Dollars\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeverums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOscars\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDatnoids\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarger Barbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArowanas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge Catfish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOther large Bichirs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid housing with small fish, shrimp, or species that can fit into the Bichir's mouth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAquascaping Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrnate Bichirs thrive in large aquariums with soft substrate, driftwood, caves, and shaded resting areas. They spend much of their time exploring the bottom of the aquarium and appreciate plenty of structure and hiding places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003esecure lid is essential\u003c\/strong\u003e, as Bichirs are powerful escape artists and can leave the aquarium through surprisingly small gaps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTheir bold markings look spectacular against dark substrates, large driftwood pieces, and natural Amazonian-style layouts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Glass And Gill","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53672094794022,"sku":"RT-212","price":550.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1019\/9810\/0774\/files\/eshwater_21_610a0b7c-5f6a-4fe4-945c-afa045eeed19.png?v=1786526563"},{"product_id":"platinum-bichir","title":"Platinum Bichir","description":"\u003cstyle\u003e\na {\n    text-decoration: none;\n    color: #464feb;\n}\ntr th, tr td {\n    border: 1px solid #e6e6e6;\n}\ntr th {\n    background-color: #f5f5f5;\n}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003ePlatinum Bichir\u003c\/strong\u003e is one of the rarest and most sought-after freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby. Featuring a stunning pure white to silver coloration, this remarkable variant of the Senegal Bichir combines a prehistoric appearance with an elegant, almost mythical presence that immediately draws attention in any aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOften referred to as a \"living dinosaur,\" the Platinum Bichir retains all the fascinating characteristics of its wild counterparts, including its armoured scales, distinctive dorsal finlets, and ability to breathe atmospheric air. Its unique platinum-white coloration creates a dramatic contrast against dark substrates, driftwood, and natural hardscape, making it a true showpiece fish for serious aquarists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite its premium appearance, the Platinum Bichir remains hardy and adaptable, sharing the same inquisitive personality and fascinating behaviour as the standard Senegal Bichir. Constantly exploring its environment and investigating every corner of the aquarium, it quickly becomes one of the most engaging fish in any collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether housed in a monster fish setup or a carefully curated predator community, the Platinum Bichir is a statement piece that few freshwater species can rival.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy You'll Love Them\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRare and highly sought-after platinum coloration\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUnique prehistoric \"living dinosaur\" appearance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHardy and adaptable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntelligent and inquisitive behaviour\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncredible centrepiece fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuitable for monster fish and large community aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCare Requirements\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTank Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 250L+ (larger for adults)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24–28°C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 6.5–7.8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Carnivorous – sinking carnivore pellets, shrimp, earthworms, frozen foods, and fish protein-based diets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDifficulty:\u003c\/strong\u003e Easy to Moderate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBehaviour \u0026amp; Compatibility\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlatinum Bichirs are generally peaceful predators that spend much of their time exploring the aquarium floor and searching for food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuitable tank mates include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSilver Dollars\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeverums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarger Barbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDatnoids\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOscars\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge Rainbowfish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSynodontis Catfish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOther appropriately sized Bichirs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid housing with very small fish or shrimp, as anything that fits into their mouth may eventually be viewed as food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAquascaping Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlatinum Bichirs thrive in aquariums with soft substrate, caves, driftwood, and shaded resting areas. Their bright white coloration looks extraordinary against black substrates and darker aquascapes, creating an impressive contrast that highlights their unique appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003esecure lid is essential\u003c\/strong\u003e, as Bichirs are known escape artists and can squeeze through surprisingly small openings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProviding plenty of hiding places and open swimming space will encourage natural behaviour and help the fish settle in confidently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Glass And Gill","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53672377647398,"sku":"RT-616","price":850.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1019\/9810\/0774\/files\/eshwater_22_07d6bda8-4ba5-40cf-a09b-aecd71d55640.png?v=1786534276"},{"product_id":"saddled-bichir","title":"Saddled Bichir","description":"\u003cstyle\u003e\na {\n    text-decoration: none;\n    color: #464feb;\n}\ntr th, tr td {\n    border: 1px solid #e6e6e6;\n}\ntr th {\n    background-color: #f5f5f5;\n}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eSaddled Bichir\u003c\/strong\u003e is one of the largest and most impressive members of the Bichir family, renowned for its powerful build, prehistoric appearance, and distinctive saddle-like markings running along its body. Often described as a true \"living dinosaur,\" this incredible freshwater predator has remained largely unchanged for millions of years, making it one of the most fascinating fish in the aquarium hobby.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeaturing a broad head, muscular body, and dark saddle-shaped patterning across a light grey to olive background, the Saddled Bichir commands attention in any large aquarium. As it matures, its sheer size and presence make it a natural centrepiece for monster fish enthusiasts and collectors of unusual species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite its formidable appearance, the Saddled Bichir is generally calm and deliberate in its movements. It spends much of its time patrolling the bottom of the aquarium, exploring caves and driftwood, and emerging at feeding time with surprising enthusiasm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor aquarists seeking a truly remarkable predator fish with incredible character and prehistoric appeal, few species can rival the Saddled Bichir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy You'll Love Them\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStunning prehistoric appearance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDistinctive saddle-pattern markings\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne of the largest Bichir species\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntelligent and highly inquisitive\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncredible centrepiece fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHardy and long-lived when properly cared for\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCare Requirements\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTank Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750L+ (larger for adult specimens)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24–28°C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 6.5–7.8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Carnivorous – earthworms, shrimp, sinking carnivore pellets, fish fillets, and frozen foods\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDifficulty:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate to Advanced\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBehaviour \u0026amp; Compatibility\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSaddled Bichirs are peaceful for a predator but should only be housed with fish too large to be viewed as food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuitable tank mates include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArowanas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDatnoids\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOscars\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeverums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge Silver Dollars\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge Catfish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOther large Bichirs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid keeping them with small fish, shrimp, or species that can fit into their mouth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAquascaping Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSaddled Bichirs thrive in spacious aquariums with soft sand substrates, large pieces of driftwood, caves, and shaded areas where they can rest during the day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003etight-fitting lid is absolutely essential\u003c\/strong\u003e, as Bichirs are notorious escape artists and can force their way through surprisingly small openings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTheir natural colouration and imposing size look especially striking in large river-style aquariums and monster fish displays featuring wood, rocks, and subdued lighting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Glass And Gill","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53672390918438,"sku":"RT-353","price":350.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1019\/9810\/0774\/files\/eshwater_23_67acba47-48b1-4446-9ba0-02dde4322d56.png?v=1786534907"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1019\/9810\/0774\/collections\/Routed_4_0b5ef7cb-53e9-492f-84c9-334d63fb0a6a.png?v=1790336165","url":"https:\/\/www.glassandgill.co.za\/collections\/bichir.oembed","provider":"Glass And Gill","version":"1.0","type":"link"}