What the Indonesian tiger fish is
The Indonesian tiger fish, also called the Indo datnoid or IT dat (Datnioides microlepis), is a large predatory freshwater fish known for bold dark bars over a golden body. It is popular with predator keepers and tends to be an expensive, long-term fish. Other tiger fish in the same family, such as the Siamese tigerfish (Datnioides polota), are often grouped with it, but they are not the same species and have somewhat different needs, so confirm which fish you are buying.
Size and lifespan
Sellers commonly list adult Indo datnoids at around 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm), though captive fish may fall short of that. They are generally regarded as long-lived with good care, which is part of why they are a serious commitment. The smaller Siamese tigerfish is often listed at about 12 inches and a lifespan of around 8 to 12 years.
Tank size and setup
Because of their adult size, datnoids need a large tank. One retailer lists a minimum of 180 gallons and recommends more for groups or mixed predator setups. Footprint matters: choose a long tank that allows turning and free swimming.
- Filtration. Strong filtration and large, regular water changes help with the waste created by a big meat-eating fish.
- Hiding places. Driftwood and rock structures give shy fish cover, particularly while they settle in. Make sure decor is stable and not sharp.
- Open swimming space. Leave room in the middle of the tank.
- Lid. Large predators can startle and jump, so a secure lid is sensible.
If you are weighing this fish against other big predators, see our overview of freshwater eel tank size for another example of how adult size should set the tank, not the size of the juvenile.
Water conditions
Indo datnoids are generally kept in stable, clean water at tropical temperatures, commonly around 75 to 82°F (24 to 28°C), with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Exact recommendations differ between sources, and the Siamese tigerfish is sometimes recommended in brackish conditions for long-term health, so match parameters to the specific species. What nearly all sources agree on is stability: avoid sudden swings and keep nitrogen waste at zero or as low as possible.
Feeding
Tiger fish are carnivores. Common foods include:
- Frozen foods such as silversides, shrimp and other seafood.
- Earthworms and other meaty items.
- Pellets, which some fish can be trained to accept over time.
One seller suggests feeding 3 to 4 times a week depending on size. Younger fish typically eat more often. Many keepers avoid live feeder fish because they can introduce disease and parasites, a point also raised for the Siamese tigerfish. Remove any uneaten food to keep the water clean.
Can fish survive 4 days without food?
Many healthy adult fish can go several days without eating, and a large predator such as a datnoid is often fed only a few times a week anyway. But this depends on the fish’s age, condition and temperature. Young fish and thin or recently imported fish have less reserve and should not be left for long. If you are going away, a short gap is generally better than overfeeding or dumping in extra food, which pollutes the tank. If a fish stops eating in your presence, it may be a sign of stress or illness, which is different from a planned fast.
Temperament and tank mates
Indo datnoids are semi-aggressive predators. They can be shy at first and often become bolder and more interactive over time. They are generally paired with large, hardy fish that are too big to be eaten, such as large catfish (see the redtail shovelnose hybrid) or big cichlids like the Texas cichlid, and with other datnoids if there is enough space. Small fish should be considered food. Keep similar-colored tank mates out of the picture, since that can trigger aggression.
Telling males from females
There are usually no visible external differences between the sexes, and sexing is considered difficult. For the Siamese tigerfish, one profile states there are no visible differences and no confirmed aquarium breeding. If you wish to keep more than one, plan for space and watch for aggression rather than assuming a pair.
Are datnoids hard to keep?
They are usually considered an advanced fish. Reasons include:
- Their very large adult size and the cost of a suitable tank.
- A reputation for being picky eaters, especially when newly imported.
- Sensitivity to poor water quality.
- A long lifespan, which means a long commitment.
Hobbyists who are prepared for these points, and who buy a healthy fish that is already feeding well, generally have better results than beginners who buy on impulse.
What about tiger jawfish?
The tiger jawfish is a different animal. It is a small saltwater fish and has no relation to datnoids, so its care is entirely different and requires a marine aquarium. If you were searching for it, look for a marine fish care resource rather than a freshwater predator guide.