African tigerfish
The African tigerfish is a large, predatory characin (family Alestidae) found across river systems and lakes of sub-Saharan Africa, including the Zambezi and Congo basins. It has a streamlined silver body marked with dark horizontal stripes and is armed with prominent, interlocking dagger-like teeth, making it a formidable hunter. It is aggressive and highly predatory, pursuing fast-moving prey fish in open water. It may shoal loosely when young but becomes less tolerant with age. This species is suited only to very large aquariums or ponds and to specialist keepers, as adults grow substantial and require enormous swimming space and powerful filtration. It is a strict carnivore that feeds on whole fish and large meaty items. It should not be mixed with fish small enough to be eaten. Its size, speed, and dietary demands make it an advanced-level fish.
Water parameters
| Temperature | 23 – 28 °C |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 – 7.5 |
| Carbonate hardness (KH) | 4 – 12 °dKH |
| General hardness (GH) | 5 – 15 °dGH |
Tank & stocking
| Minimum tank volume | 2400 L |
|---|---|
| Volume budget per individual | 500 L — adds up with tank-mates |
| Minimum group size | 5 individuals (shoaling) |
“Minimum tank volume” is a reasonable floor, not an absolute limit. The per-individual budget is used by the Aqua app to estimate how heavily a tank is stocked.
Frequently asked questions
What size aquarium does African tigerfish need?
Provide at least 2400 litres for a small group to keep African tigerfish in good conditions.
What water parameters does African tigerfish need?
A temperature of 23–28 °C, pH 6.5–7.5.
Is African tigerfish peaceful or aggressive?
Its temperament is aggressive.
What does African tigerfish eat?
Its diet: carnivore.
How many African tigerfish should be kept together?
It is a social species: keep a group of at least 5.
How big does African tigerfish get?
Around 70 cm as an adult.
Is African tigerfish suitable for beginners?
Care level: advanced.
Planning a tank with African tigerfish?
AquaTender turns these parameters into live advice: it checks whether your tank is big enough, how heavily it's stocked, and whether your fish are compatible — then tracks water tests, photos and maintenance for you.
Fish from the same biotope
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