Tigerfish

Introduction: The tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus) is a voracious and fierce fish that swims in larger rivers and lakes, with a tendency to frequent the surface layers of water. This makes it an ideal target for the African fish eagle. It also is high on the list as major angling game fish and a prime target on most fishing trips in Namibia and surrounding countries. Although it is still widespread and common in most areas, numbers have declined over the years due to pollution, water extraction and obstructions from man-made structures such as weirs and dams that prevent their passage. Females live for around 8-9 years, males less. Tigerfish have not been bred in captivity yet.

Distribution: Kavango River, Cbobe & Zambezi River

Diet: Tigerfish will prey on whatever is most abundant, but are partial to slender-bodied shoaling fishes such as robbers, minnows and sardine.

Colouring: A striking colour of a silvery head and body, with a bluish sheen on the back and a series of parallel longitudinal black stripes.

Breeding: Tigerfish breed during the summer months. Adults migrate up or downstream to suitable spawning sites, usually along flooded river banks or lake shores. As many as 780,000 ova in large females (of 650-700mm full length), and spawning may take place at night.

Size: Females grow to a full length of above 700mm, but males only 500mm full length. Weight is up to around 5.5kg. Newly hatched fry are around 10mm long.