The Finescale tigerfish (Datnioides microlepis) is a freshwater fish of the family Datnioididae that grows up to 55 cm.
Description
The finescale tigerfish is a deep, laterally compressed freshwater fish from Southeast Asia, in the Chao Phraya, the Mekong, the Kapuas basin in Borneo and the Musi basin in Sumatra. The species grows to about 55 cm and has a yellow-brown body with broad, black vertical bars, a tiger-like pattern. It stays among submerged branches and in flooded forests and ambushes shrimp and fish. It is a prized aquarium fish, protected in Thailand. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Finescale tigerfish?
The Finescale tigerfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Tiger-like bar pattern; ambush predator in flooded forests
Where does the Finescale tigerfish live?
The Finescale tigerfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia
How big does the Finescale tigerfish get?
The Finescale tigerfish grows to a maximum of about 55 cm.
Is the Finescale tigerfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Finescale tigerfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Finescale tigerfish edible?
The Finescale tigerfish is rarely eaten.
More photos

Want the complete picture on the Finescale tigerfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Finescale tigerfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Datnioides
More from the family Datnioididae

Want the complete picture on the Finescale tigerfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Finescale tigerfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.