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Indonesian Tigerfish

Maneggiare con cura

Datnioides microlepis

Conosciuto anche come: Finescale Tigerfish, Siamese Tigerfish (often misapplied), Gold Datnoid, Tiger Datnoid

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Descrizione

Datnioides microlepis, commonly known as the Indonesian Tigerfish, is a large, predatory freshwater fish belonging to the family Datnioididae. It is highly prized in the aquarium trade for its striking coloration and distinctive vertical banding. These fish are ambush predators, characterized by their robust body, large mouth, and cryptic patterning that allows them to blend seamlessly with their natural habitat. They are known for their longevity and can grow to a considerable size, requiring substantial tank space in captivity.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo
compressed
Colorazione
Base color ranges from golden yellow to brownish-yellow, adorned with 5-7 prominent, irregular, vertical black bands. The intensity and number of bands can vary, and some individuals may exhibit a 'split bar' pattern where a single band appears to be two. The fins are typically translucent or slightly dusky.
Tipo di squame
cycloid
Posizione della bocca
terminal
Caratteristiche distintive
Large, protractile mouth with thick lips, Robust, deep body, Small, cycloid scales (hence 'microlepis'), Prominent vertical black bands on a golden to brownish-yellow body, Large eyes relative to head size
Pinna dorsale
Two dorsal fins; the first is spiny (XII-XIII spines), and the second is soft-rayed (13-14 soft rays). The spiny dorsal fin is typically lower than the soft-rayed portion.
Pinna caudale
Rounded to slightly emarginate caudal fin.
Pinna pettorale
Large, rounded pectoral fins.
Pinne distintive
Anal fin with III spines and 9-10 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Consigli per l'identificazione

Body Shape and Size

Robust, deep-bodied fish reaching up to 45 cm (18 inches) in length, though larger specimens up to 60 cm (24 inches) have been reported in the wild.

Coloration and Banding

Golden to brownish-yellow base color with 5-7 distinct, irregular black vertical bands. The bands extend from the dorsal to the ventral surface. The number and pattern of bands are crucial for species differentiation within the genus.

Scales

Possesses very small, cycloid scales, which is a key diagnostic feature and the basis for its specific epithet 'microlepis' (meaning 'small scales').

Mouth

Large, protractile mouth, indicative of its predatory nature.

Habitat

Tipo di acqua
freshwater
Profondità
Typically found in shallow to moderate depths, often near submerged vegetation or woody debris.
Ambiente
Prefers slow-moving to stagnant waters of large rivers, floodplains, lakes, and swamps. Often associated with areas of dense aquatic vegetation, submerged roots, and fallen logs, which provide cover for ambush predation.
Areale geografico
Native to Southeast Asia, specifically found in the Mekong River basin (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam), Chao Phraya River basin (Thailand), and various river systems in Sumatra and Borneo (Indonesia, Malaysia).

Informazioni sull'acquario

  • Livello di cura: advanced
  • Temperamento: aggressive
  • Dieta: carnivore
  • Dimensione minima della vasca: 250 gallons (946 liters) for adults
  • Temperatura: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
  • Livello di pH: 6.5-7.5
  • Durezza: 5-15 dGH
  • Compatibilità: Best kept alone or with other large, equally aggressive fish that cannot be swallowed. Avoid small or docile tankmates.
  • Requisiti speciali: Requires excellent filtration, stable water parameters, and a spacious tank with plenty of hiding spots (driftwood, large rocks). They are sensitive to water quality fluctuations and require a diet of live or frozen meaty foods. Dim lighting is preferred.

Informazioni in natura

  • Stato di conservazione: vulnerable
  • Stagionalità: Spawning typically occurs during the rainy season, but specific seasonal behaviors are not extensively documented for wild populations due to their elusive nature.
  • Prezzo di mercato: High, especially for well-patterned specimens
  • Importanza commerciale: medium
  • Sapore: Mild, firm white flesh
  • Consistenza: Flaky, firm
  • Metodi di cottura: Steaming, Frying, Grilling
  • Valore nutrizionale: Good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Fatti chiave

Ambush Predatorbehavior

Datnioides microlepis is a classic ambush predator, relying on its cryptic coloration to hide among submerged structures and dart out to capture unsuspecting prey.

Longevityinteresting

In captivity, with proper care, Indonesian Tigerfish can live for 10-15 years, and potentially longer in ideal conditions.

Color Changebehavior

The intensity of their banding and overall coloration can change rapidly depending on their mood, stress levels, and environmental conditions, often darkening when stressed or excited.

Taxonomic Confusioninteresting

The common name 'Siamese Tigerfish' is often incorrectly applied to D. microlepis, leading to confusion with the critically endangered D. pulcher. Accurate identification is crucial, especially in the trade.

Informazioni di sicurezza

Maneggiare con cura
  • Livello di sicurezza: caution
  • Velenoso: No
  • Commestibilità: edible
  • Note sul maneggio: While not venomous, Datnioides microlepis possesses sharp dorsal and anal fin spines that can inflict painful punctures. Care should be taken when handling to avoid injury. Their large mouth and aggressive nature mean they can bite if threatened, though this is rare outside of feeding. Always use appropriate tools (e.g., thick gloves, nets) if handling is necessary.

Specie simili

Siamese Tigerfish

Datnioides pulcher

D. pulcher typically has 5 distinct, thick, and evenly spaced black bands, often with a 'Y' shaped band near the caudal peduncle. Its scales are larger than D. microlepis. It is also generally considered more robust and can reach larger sizes. D. pulcher is critically endangered.

New Guinea Tigerfish

Datnioides campbelli

D. campbelli usually has 6-7 narrower, more irregular bands, and often a more silvery-grey base color. It is endemic to New Guinea and has a more elongated body shape compared to D. microlepis.

Silver Tigerfish

Datnioides quadrifasciatus

D. quadrifasciatus typically has 4-5 broad, dark bands on a silvery-grey body. It is often found in brackish water environments and has a more elongated body than D. microlepis.

Classificazione scientifica

Regno
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Classe
Actinopterygii
Ordine
Perciformes
Famiglia
Datnioididae
Genere
Datnioides
Specie
Datnioides microlepis

Esplora Indonesian Tigerfish

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