General Description

The name Tigerfish is often given to freshwater fish belonging to the genus Datnioides, also known as Datnoids. These fish are also known as freshwater tripletails and there are five different species. Tigerfish are predatory fish that feed on smaller fish so they are not recommended for the community tank. These fish are semi-aggressive by nature but they can sometimes be kept with other fish of similar size – keeping them in groups with five of their own species may also reduce predation.

The name Tigerfish is often given to freshwater fish belonging to the genus Datnioides, also known as Datnoids.

Origins

The Tigerfish is native to various parts of Asia and New Guinea where they can be found in both fresh and brackish waters.

Color

The Tigerfish is named for the vertical stripes that run all along its body. Most Tigerfish have a silver or gold base color with thick, dark bars – some even exhibit reddish coloration along the back.

Maintenance and Care

Not only are Tigerfish fairly aggressive, but they also grow large – up to 24 inches for some species. This being the case, they need to be kept in a very large tank at least 100 gallons or more. These fish prefer very warm water in the neutral pH range with a low to moderate hardness. The ideal temperature range is 72°F to 79°F with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 and a water hardness level between 5 and 20 dGH. The Tigerfish tank should be decorated with plenty of hardy vegetation and driftwood as well as rockwork for hiding places.

The Tigerfish is named for the vertical stripes that run all along its body.

Feeding

The Tigerfish is a carnivorous species that feeds primarily on other fish. In the home aquarium, you should offer your Tigerfish commercial foods designed for carnivorous fish as well as a variety of fresh and frozen foods like earthworms, small shrimp, small crabs, and small fish.

Also read:6 Popular Aquarium Fish You Need To Avoid

Breeding Info

There are no records of Tigerfish having been successfully bred in the home aquarium.

Aquarium Varieties

There are five different species of Tigerfish that have been recognized including the following:

Photo credit: winnieapple/Bigstock; Iva Afonskaya/Bigstock