Fin's Fish Guide
The Tigerfish (Hydrocynus forskahlii) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 78 cm.
Fresh water of much of Africa, in large rivers and lakes, including the Nile, Niger, Senegal and the Congo basin.
Description
The tigerfish is a streamlined, silvery predator of the family Alestidae (African tetras) reaching about 78 cm. Thin, dark lengthwise stripes run along the silver flank; the fins are often reddish and the jaws bear large, dagger-like teeth that protrude when the mouth is closed. The species comes from large rivers and lakes across much of Africa, including the Nile, Niger, Senegal and the Congo basin. It is a fast, fierce piscivore that hunts other fish in groups or from ambush. Because of its power and aggression it is one of the most prized sport fish of Africa. The sharp teeth can bite dangerously when unhooking.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tigerfish?
The Tigerfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Streamlined silvery predator with thin dark longitudinal stripes, red fins and large, dagger-like teeth that protrude from the mouth.
Where does the Tigerfish live?
The Tigerfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of much of Africa, in large rivers and lakes, including the Nile, Niger, Senegal and the Congo basin.
How big does the Tigerfish get?
The Tigerfish grows to a maximum of about 78 cm.
Is the Tigerfish dangerous to humans?
The Tigerfish can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. A predator with sharp teeth that can bite when unhooked; use long-nose pliers and keep fingers out of the mouth.
Is the Tigerfish edible?
Yes, the Tigerfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hydrocynus
More from the family Alestidae
Want the complete picture on the Tigerfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tigerfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.