Hydrocynus vittatus

fish

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

Hydrocynus vittatus, commonly known as the tigerfish, is a freshwater fish found in African waters and is part of the characin family. These fish are recognized for their aggressive nature, swift movements, and predaceous habits. They possess salmon-shaped bodies and distinctive dagger-like teeth that protrude even when their mouths are closed.1

There are several species of tigerfish, with H. vittatus being considered an excellent game fish. The largest species can reach over 1.8 meters (6 feet) in length and weigh more than 57 kg (125 pounds). Tigerfish are voracious carnivores and are at the top of the food chain in their environment.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

ostariophysan
Feeding habits
…ostariophysan is the tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus), which attains a weight exceeding 45 kg (approximately 100 pounds); its huge, sharp teeth and large, tunalike tail endow it with ferocity and speed. Parasitic habits are rarely found among bony fishes, but certain species of trichomycterid catfishes attach themselves to the gills…
Read More
…ostariophysan is the tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus), which attains a weight exceeding 45 kg (approximately 100 pounds); its huge, sharp teeth and large, tunalike tail endow it with ferocity and speed. Parasitic habits are rarely found among bony fishes, but certain species of trichomycterid catfishes attach themselves to the gills…
Read More

tigerfish
The smaller H. vittatus is claimed to be one of the finest game fishes in the world.
Read More
The smaller H. vittatus is claimed to be one of the finest game fishes in the world.
Read More