Siamese Tiger Perch — a Datnioididae from Mekong basin, SE Asia, peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates. Reaches 30–44 cm; keep in a group of 4–6 for natural behaviour. 22–26 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
30–44 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates
Origin
Mekong basin, SE Asia
Species overview
From the waters of Mekong basin, SE Asia comes Datnioides pulcher, a member of the family Datnioididae. A adaptable species that forgives beginner mistakes more readily than most. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 30–44 cm. Keep in a group of 4–6 for natural behaviour. Give it clean water and room to behave naturally, and it will largely care for itself. Maintain 22–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. Best suited to a keeper who can match its natural water.
Native biotope
Habitat
Warm freshwater streams and lakes
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate oxygen levels
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Fine sand and gravel
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones
Plants
Hardy common aquarium plants
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Keep in a group of 4–6 for natural behaviour
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular variety
Recommended tankmates
Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Compatible size and temperament