Vittatus Tigerfish (3.5-4”)

Scientific Name:

Hydrocynus vittatus

Maximum Size and Lifespan:

• Size: Up to 105 cm (40+ inches) in the wild; typically 24–31 inches in captivity

• Weight: Can exceed 15 kg (33 lbs)

• Lifespan: Around 10–15 years, potentially longer with excellent care

Recommended Aquarium Size:

• Minimum Tank Size: 500–1000 gallons (1890–3785 liters) for a single adult

• These are extremely active, powerful swimmers requiring ample horizontal space

• Tank should be long and wide, with strong filtration and secure lid
  

Water Changes and General Care:

• Water Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Water Change Frequency:

  • 40-60% weekly, depending on bioload

• Filtration:

  • High-capacity, canister or sump system essential

  • Strong current beneficial to mimic riverine environment

• Oxygenation: Very important – use air stones or surface agitation. These fish require highly oxygenated water*

Tankmates:

Hydrocynus vittatus is aggressive and predatory. Babies and Juveniles are fragile. They will start to get some girth once ~7-8". 
Best tankmates:

• Other large, robust, and fast-moving species, e.g.:

  • Polypterus, Datnoids, arowanas, Stingrays, Peacock Bass, Larger Growing Catfish (With Appropriate Sizing)

• Avoid:

  • Slow, peaceful, or small fish (they will be eaten)

  • Territorial or fin-nipping fish

Diet:

• Carnivorous 

• In captivity:

  • Best foods:

    • With time they will accept hikari food sticks and sinking carnivore pellets

    • frozen shrimp, Smelt, silversides, Chopped tilapia, etc. Are great to offer for a well balanced diet
      

  • Avoid:

    • Feeder goldfish (risk of parasites, poor nutrition)

Overview and Behavior:

• Hydrocynus vittatus, also known as the African Tigerfish, is a ferocious predator known for its razor-sharp teeth and explosive strikes.

• This species is a challenge even for experienced aquarists due to size, aggression, and space needs

• They require open swimming areas and secure lids (they're known to jump when startled)

Natural Environment:

• Found in sub-Saharan Africa, primarily in large rivers and lakes, including the Congo River Basin, Zambezi River, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Kariba

• They thrive in well-oxygenated, flowing waters

• Often school as juveniles but become more solitary as they grow

Breeding:

• Breeding in captivity: Extremely rare and largely undocumented

• In nature, they breed during flood seasons

• Spawning behavior:

  • Migrates to floodplains where they scatter thousands of eggs

  • No parental care

• Success in breeding would likely require:

  • Hormonal induction

  • Huge, river-like systems

  • Seasonal simulation (rainfall, water temp, photoperiod)

Summary – Care Level: Advanced

Hydrocynus vittatus is a majestic, powerful species best suited for public aquaria or private specialists with massive tanks and experience in large, aggressive predatory fish.