African Tigerfish
Hydrocynus vittatus
Points
20
per confirmed sighting
African Tigerfish.
Hydrocynus vittatus
A fierce predatory fish of the Zambezi and Okavango systems, prized by anglers.
Category
freshwater fish
Family
Alestidae
Size
Up to 105 cm, 15 kg
Points
20 pts
A closer look
Field notes for spotting, identifying and understanding african tigerfish in its natural range.
Overview
A fierce predatory fish of the Zambezi and Okavango systems, prized by anglers.
How to identify it
Silver body with horizontal dark stripes, red-orange fins and interlocking teeth.
Habitat
Warm, well-oxygenated large rivers and lakes.
Diet
Smaller fish
Behaviour
—
When to look
Activity varies by habitat; no single diel period is imposed here.
Where to see it
South Africa
Eswatini- Okavango DeltaBW
- Mana Pools National ParkZW
Safety and etiquette
Observe from a vehicle or a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
Verification and sources
1500 verified species across ten Southern African countries. Spotted an error? Tell us through community guidelines.