More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 10000 litres / 2641.72 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 50.0cm / 19.69inches |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 2.02dgH / 36ppm - 15.02dgH / 268ppm |
| pH | 5.5-7.5 |
General Description
The Datnioides Microlepis, commonly known as the Indonesian Tiger Perch, is a member of the Perciformes order. It is a largely piscivorous predator with highly protrusible mouthparts. Adult individuals can reach sizes of up to 50.0cm and are distinguishable by their distinct black marking immediately anterior to the pelvic-fin base.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for Datnioides Microlepis, juveniles and subadults require a well-decorated, planted tank with driftwood roots and branches. Larger individuals are less particular but appreciate some surface cover like floating vegetation. A minimum tank size of 10000 litres is recommended, and the species does not need the addition of marine salt at any life stage. The use of large external filters with built-in heaters is crucial, as adults are known to damage submerged equipment.
Behaviour
Datnioides Microlepis can coexist with similarly-sized fishes if given enough space but may feel intimidated by territorial or competitive species. While juveniles may form groups, adults are not gregarious and react aggressively to conspecifics and similarly-shaped fishes. It is advised to keep them singly or in groups of 5 or more individuals.
Feeding and Diet
In the aquarium, juveniles can be fed chironomid larvae, small earthworms, and chopped prawn, while adults accept fish flesh, whole prawns, mussels, and live river shrimp. Feeding 2-3 times a week is sufficient for older individuals. It is crucial to avoid mammalian or avian meat like beef heart and feeder fish due to potential health risks.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Reproduction of Datnioides Microlepis has not been recorded in captivity, but observations from the Kapuas River suggest non-migratory spawning in April and May without parental care. Sexual dimorphism is unknown for this species.
Habitat and Distribution
The Indonesian Tiger Perch is found in large, deep freshwater rivers in the Malay Peninsula and western Indonesia. It inhabits the Perak and Selangor river systems in Malaysia, the Batang Hari and Musi watersheds in Sumatra, and the Kapuas basin in Kalimantan. It is not known to enter brackish environments and has been collected from flooded forests during the wet season.