The tiger fish, whose scientific name is Hydrocynus Goliath, belongs to the family of Alestidae, a very varied family of fish widespread especially in African waters. This family is very large, and it is not possible to make a unitary classification and description of the fish belonging to it.
The tiger fish is a freshwater species native to the African region. It is known by this name because it is ferocious, with the aggressiveness of the South American piranha. There is a great variety of these fish. They come in different sizes and are good predators, so some people fear them.
By reading this article, you will learn about the impressiveness of this fish, its history, its endowed characteristics, what it eats, and even how it does so and the care required for its maintenance.
History of the Tiger Fish
The scientific name of this fish is Hydrocynus Vittatus, and it belongs to the Alesttidae family. Its habitat is in Africa, specifically in the Congo River, where most of it lives, although it also lives in other rivers on this continent.
In the Congo, fisherman and adventurer Jeremy Wade caught one of these species, the largest known as the Goliath Tigerfish. Fearing the fish, this skilled fisherman used his cunning to catch it since it is a very aggressive predator with a reputation for blowing anyone’s head off.
Wade was impressed by the size of the fish. He caught one about 1.5 meters long and weighed more than 100 pounds.
Characteristics of the tiger fish
- Six species of this fish are known so far, and their sizes can vary according to their age and size. The smallest is the Tanzania, which measures approximately 25 centimeters, and the largest is the Goliath, which can reach up to two meters in size.
- The tiger fish has large scales on its fins and can be seen in a yellow or bronze color with red flashes. Tiger fish has a black color on its edges. On its belly, a beautiful silver color can be seen, as can its scales, although they vary in color due to their size.
- Its name comes from its muscular body and the color of its stripes. Also, the Tiger Fish, like tigers, is not afraid of anything.
- A very peculiar feature of this fish is its large 32-pointed teeth. But that’s not all. They were also equipped with replacement teeth inserted into holes inside the jaw bones.
- They have excellent eyesight and the ability to detect their prey’s vibrations. Although it is unknown how long they live, some have reached 10 or 15 years in captivity.
Tiger fish feeding
Smaller fish hunt in groups, but larger fish hunt alone. They usually prey on other smaller fish or fish of the same size. They also like turbulent waters where other fish are more vulnerable and easy prey for them.
Another ability of the tiger fish is its ability to hunt swallows. It jumps over the water and captures its prey.
The Goliath tigerfish has been observed attacking small crocodiles to feed on them. In short, it is an excellent predator and not demanding, eating everything that moves.
Tiger Fish Care
This genus is highly protected in Africa, as it takes up to 14 years for them to double. For this reason, the conservation of this species is a priority for those in the region. That is why fishermen are asked to be aware and return them to the water when they manage to catch one.
Some threats to the tiger fish include habitat degradation, overexploitation, and pollution of lakes and rivers. Therefore, it is important and necessary to raise awareness and protect this impressive species so that it does not become extinct.
Tiger Fish Aggression Towards Humans
Tiger fish are dangerous for humans and animals. In fact, they are most widespread in Congo. There have been many attacks on people or dogs near the lakes where they live. Due to their strength and the power of their teeth, tiger fish attacks can be excessively dangerous even for humans and, in some cases, even lethal.
These attacks are even more dangerous when you find yourself in periods of dry lakes. The aquatic fauna tends to decrease when the fish attack in groups. In fact, an attack of this kind is considered almost impossible to avoid and defeat. If you find yourself in these areas, avoiding direct contact with the water, especially offshore, is advisable to avoid a fearful attack from these dangerous tiger fish.
For the same reasons, fishing for these fish is obviously not recommended. It is extremely difficult due to the fish’s resistance and can ultimately be terribly dangerous.