Hydrocynus goliath

(Boulenger, 1898)

Vernacular names
English : Giant tigerfish
French : Poisson tigre goliath

Classification
Class : Teleostei
Order : Characiformes
Family : Alestidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
The largest species of its genus, growing to 133 cm for a weight of 1 kg. Forehead profile flat and elongated, large mouth with prominent big sharp teeth. Body color silvery-blue with no visible markings on flanks. Tail fin with red edges.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in Central Africa, in most the Congo river basin, from near the sea to upper Lualaba and in Lake Tanganyika as well. Lives in large freshwater rivers and their tributaries, lakes.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : This species is common within its large range and faces no threats. It is often caught for food, sport and for the trade.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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