Description

Indo Datnoid (Indonesian Tigerfish)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Datnioides microlepis

• Common Names: Indo Datnoid, Indonesian Tigerfish, Indonesian Datnoid

• Family: Lobotidae (Tigerfish Family)

• Order: Perciformes

• Origin: Indonesia — mainly Borneo, Sumatra, and surrounding freshwater rivers and lakes

• Size: Up to 12 inches (30 cm) in captivity; can reach 18 inches (45 cm) in the wild

• Lifespan: 10 – 15 years

• Tank Zone: Mid to bottom dweller

🌊 Water Parameters

• TDS: 100 – 250 ppm

• pH: 6.5 – 7.5

• Temperature: 24 – 30°C (75 – 86°F)

• Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

• Body: Compressed, laterally flattened body with strong vertical stripes resembling a tiger pattern.

• Coloration: Juveniles show bright contrasting stripes, which fade slightly with age; body usually yellowish to golden-brown.

• Fins: Dorsal and anal fins are broad; caudal fin slightly forked.

• Behavior: Semi-aggressive and territorial, especially as adults.

• Nature: Predatory and active; mostly daytime activity.

• Special Feature: Excellent ambush predator; uses striped pattern for camouflage in planted and driftwood-heavy tanks.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Carnivorous / Predatory

• Diet: Live or frozen foods like small fish, shrimp, bloodworms, krill, and occasional high-protein pellets.

• Feeding Frequency: Once daily; juveniles may feed twice.

• Tip: Offer varied protein sources to enhance color and growth; avoid overfeeding.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 300 liters (80 gallons) for a single adult.

• Filtration: Strong filtration with moderate to high water flow; sensitive to poor water quality.

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel; avoid sharp stones to prevent injuries.

• Decor: Driftwood, rocks, and dense plant areas for hiding and ambush spots.

• Lighting: Moderate; prefers shaded areas.

• Water Change: 25% weekly for optimal health.

👥 Social Behavior

• Group Size: Best kept singly or in small groups (2–3) with enough space.

• Tank Mates: Medium to large peaceful fishes like arowanas, large gouramis, silver dollars, and large barbs.

• Avoid: Small fish that can be eaten; overly aggressive or fin-nipping species.

• Compatibility Note: Territorial among same species adults; juveniles can be kept together with careful monitoring.

✅ Do’s

• Provide shaded zones and hiding spots.

• Keep water clean with strong filtration.

• Feed a variety of protein-rich foods.

• Monitor for territorial behavior in adult tank mates.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t house with small fish or delicate species.

• Don’t overcrowd the tank; they need space to establish territory.

• Don’t keep in tanks without hiding spaces.

⭐ Quick Tips
The Indo Datnoid is a stunning centerpiece fish for large aquariums. Its bold tiger stripes and predatory behavior make it a fascinating fish for experienced hobbyists. Active during the day, it is both visually striking and entertaining, though it requires careful tank planning and high water quality to thrive.