African Tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus) is an advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 1000 gallons and 75-82°F. A fast open-water predator with very sharp teeth. It is easily stressed, needs a huge long tank with strong flow and excellent water quality, and is not a fish for a typical home setup.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Hydrocynus vittatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Alestidae |
| Origin | Central and southern Africa |
| Adult size | 20-30+ in |
| Minimum tank | 1000 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Temperament | Fast, predatory, with razor-sharp teeth |
| Social behavior | Solitary or in a very large tank |
| Swim level | Open water |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore: whole live or frozen fish, large prey foods |
| Typical lifespan | 10+ years |
Quick tips
- Only for experienced keepers with a very large tank.
- Handle nets and tank work carefully; the teeth cut.
- Keep the tank long, open and spotless; it spooks and injures itself easily.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi