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Hydrocynus goliath, also known as the goliath tigerfish, giant tigerfish, or mbenga, is a very large African predatory freshwater fish of the family Alestidae . Distribution. Hydrocynus goliath is found in the Congo River Basin (including Lualaba River and Lake Upemba ), and Lake Tanganyika.
- They get their name from their appearance, demeanor and size. The name tigerfish is a reference to the black stripes that are often found running down the flanks of these huge fish, as well as their fierce, sharp teeth and rapacious nature; while the word ‘goliath’ refers to their giant size.
- Goliath tigerfish have up to 32 razor-sharp teeth. The upper jaw contains 12-20 teeth, while the lower jaw 8-14. The teeth interlock into matching indents onto the opposite jawline, and protrude slightly from the mouth.
- They have replaceable teeth. Although relatively little study has been carried out on these elusive creatures, a study by Gagiano et al (1996) observed that captive tigerfish would replace all their teeth simultaneously within a period of 5 days, with no replacement having been observed previously!
- They have a double hinged jaw. This means they are able to open their jaws a lot wider than other fish, and as a result its teeth point further forward when it strikes prey, allowing it to take chunks from their flesh.
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- What does the goliath tigerfish look like? The goliath tigerfish looks like a regular fish on steroids. It’s four times the size of a piranha, and it has a series of sharp, jagged fangs that stick out of its mouth.
- How big is a goliath tigerfish? You’d expect a fish with the name “Goliath” to be huge, and you’d be right. The goliath tigerfish measures anywhere from 4-5 feet long when fully grown.
- How much does a goliath tigerfish weigh? The goliath tigerfish weighs between 90-100 pounds (41-45 kg) . It’s been suggested that females are smaller than males, but this is anecdotal data and not anything verified by researchers.
- What’s the biggest Goliath tigerfish on record? Are you ready for this? The largest documented catch for the goliath tigerfish was 4.9 feet long and 154 pounds (70 kg).
Nov 2, 2022 · Learn how to keep the Goliath tigerfish, a massive and ferocious predator native to Africa, in your aquarium. Find out about their appearance, lifespan, tank size, water parameters, common diseases, behavior, tank mates, and breeding.
Mar 19, 2024 · Learn about the goliath tigerfish, a fearsome predator that can grow to five feet and weigh 34 pounds. Find out how it hunts, what it eats, and why it is called the \"demon fish\" or mbenga.
Mar 29, 2023 · Learn about the Goliath tigerfish, the largest member of the Hydrocynus genus and a fearsome predator in African rivers and lakes. Find out how to identify, care for, and avoid this fish as a pet or a sportfish.
Jul 9, 2023 · Learn everything about the goliath tigerfish, a fearsome predator with 32 spear-like teeth and a reputation for attacking humans. Find out how to catch this river monster in the Congo Basin and why it's worth the challenge.
