Higher classification Hydrocynus | Phylum Chordata Family Alestidae Scientific name Hydrocynus goliath Rank Species | |
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Similar Hydrocynus, Hydrocynus vittatus, Alestidae, Payara, Mekong giant catfish | ||
Goliath african tiger fish hydrocynus goliath monsterfishkeepers com hd quality
Hydrocynus goliath, also known as the goliath tigerfish, giant tigerfish, or mbenga, is a very large African predatory freshwater fish of the Alestidae family.
Contents
- Goliath african tiger fish hydrocynus goliath monsterfishkeepers com hd quality
- Goliath tigerfish river monster hydrocynus goliath
- Distribution
- Description
- Diet
- Interaction with humans
- References
Goliath tigerfish river monster hydrocynus goliath
Distribution
Hydrocynus goliath is found in the Congo River Basin (including Lualaba River and Lake Upemba), and Lake Tanganyika. A study published in 2011 revealed several mtDNA clades in this region, suggesting a higher tigerfish species richness than traditionally recognized. If confirmed, this would restrict H. goliath to the Congo River Basin. Four additional species (H. vittatus and three undescribed species) appear to be present in this Basin, while two (H. vittatus and an undescribed species) appear to be present in Lake Tanganyika.
Description
This large-toothed, highly predatory fish grows to a length of 1.5 metres (4.9 ft) and a weight of 50 kilograms (110 lb). Its teeth fit into distinct grooves along its jaws.
Diet
Hydrocynus goliath is a piscivore, feeding on any fish it can overpower, including smaller conspecifics.
When hunting, this fish uses the calmer eddies of the rapids to ambush its prey, using its keen sight and hearing to detect prey. When a target is noticed, the fish uses acceleration to chase it down.
Interaction with humans
A number of incidents have been reported in The Congo of this fish attacking humans. This reputation, combined with its strength, has earned it an almost mythical status among anglers, and it has been called the "greatest freshwater gamefish in the world."
According to locals living near the river, the evil spirit "mbenga" would enter the fish and make it attack people.
This species featured in Jeremy Wade's documentary series River Monsters (Season 2, Episode 1 "Demon Fish"). Wade managed to catch the fish and planned to release it, but it died from swimming into rocks during the fight. In the special, Wade called this fish the "ultimate river monster" of all the fish he has caught filming for the series.
