More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 10000 litres / 2641.72 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 40.0cm / 15.75inches |
| 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 Siamese Tiger Perch, scientifically known as Datnioides Pulcher, is a sought-after species within the aquarium hobby. Also referred to as Siamese tiger fish, Cambodian tiger fish, golden datnoid, widebar datnoid, and widebar dat, this species has a unique color pattern with dark, broad bars on its body. It belongs to the Perciformes classification order and is a largely piscivorous predator with highly protrusible mouthparts.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up the aquarium for Siamese Tiger Perch, juveniles and subadults should be provided with a well-decorated, planted tank featuring driftwood roots and branches. Larger individuals are less fussy but appreciate some surface cover like floating vegetation. It is recommended to use large external filters due to the species producing a significant amount of waste. Additionally, heaters should be guarded to prevent damage by adult fish. Siamese Tiger Perch do not require marine salt at any stage of their life and may exhibit stress-related coloration changes.
Behaviour
Siamese Tiger Perch can coexist with similarly-sized fish if there is enough space, but they may react aggressively towards conspecifics and similarly-shaped species. While juveniles may form groups, adults are not social and are best kept individually or in groups of 5 or more individuals. They can be intimidated by territorial or competitive fish.
Feeding and Diet
As efficient predators, juveniles can be fed chironomid larvae, small earthworms, and chopped prawn. Adults accept fish flesh, whole prawns, mussels, and live river shrimp. They do not require daily feeding, 2-3 times a week is enough. Avoid feeding mammalian or avian meat and feeder fish, as these can lead to health issues.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Reproduction details of Siamese Tiger Perch are unrecorded, but captive breeding efforts have been initiated with limited success. Information regarding sexual dimorphism is currently unknown.
Habitat and Distribution
Siamese Tiger Perch are found in freshwater rivers of Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. However, they are locally extinct in Thailand and face a critical endangerment status due to habitat destruction and overfishing. The species is exclusive to large, deep freshwater environments and has been collected from flooded forests during the wet season.