Datnioides Polota

Datasheet

General Description

Datnioides Polota, commonly known as Silver Tiger Perch, is a member of the Perciformes order. This species, often referred to as "silver tiger fish" or "American tiger fish," is distinguished by its highly variable color pattern with dark body bars. It is an efficient predator, known for feeding primarily on smaller fishes and crustaceans. The genus Datnioides is characterized by a combination of features such as teeth on the opercle edge, barred color pattern, and a second spinous anal-fin ray longer than the first and third rays.

Aquarium Setup

In captivity, Datnioides Polota requires a sizable tank of at least 650 litres. The aquarium should be well-decorated, especially for juveniles and subadults, with driftwood branches or mangrove roots. Providing some surface cover with floating vegetation or branches is beneficial. Since Datnioides Polota is naturally a brackish species, adding marine salt to achieve 10-20% seawater strength is highly recommended. Due to their waste production, large external filters are essential, preferably with built-in heaters. Sump systems are effective as well, with precautions to protect submerged equipment from adult fish.

Behaviour

These fish can coexist with similarly-sized species if there is enough space, but they may be intimidated by territorial or competitive fish. While juveniles may form groups, adults are not social and tend to exhibit aggression towards conspecifics and similar-shaped species. It is advisable to keep them singly or in groups of five or more individuals.

Feeding and Diet

Datnioides Polota are voracious predators that feed on various prey items, including chironomid larvae, small earthworms, chopped prawns, fish flesh, mussels, and live river shrimp. Older individuals do not require daily feeding, with 2-3 times a week being sufficient. Avoid feeding them mammalian or avian meat like beef heart, as the fish may struggle to metabolize the lipids in such food, leading to health issues.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Reproduction habits of Datnioides Polota remain unreported, and sexual dimorphism is unknown. Their distinct characteristics help differentiate them from other congeners, with features such as body bar patterns, gill arch rakers, and anal-fin ray counts setting them apart from related species.

Habitat and Distribution

Found in Southeastern Asia, Datnioides Polota inhabits brackish environments like estuaries, mangroves, coastal lagoons, and river mouths. They have been recorded in countries such as India, Bangladesh, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Despite their brackish preference, they have been occasionally sighted in freshwater environments, showcasing their adaptability.