Giant Tigerfish

Reaching an average length of 1.5 m, the Giant Tigerfish is the largest member of its genus. It is easily identified by its silver-gray body and massive jaws, which contain up to 20 upper and 14 lower teeth. These dagger-shaped teeth can reach 2.5 cm long and interlock within grooves in the mouth. This species is found only in the Congo River Basin and Lake Tanganyika, where it prefers deep river channels and open lakes with fast-flowing, highly oxygenated water.

This predator is a strong swimmer that uses keen eyesight to hunt in turbulent rapids. While it primarily eats other fish, it is known to take pieces out of crocodiles and has even attacked humans. Although adults are mostly solitary, females gather to breed near riverbanks and lakeshores. They lay thousands of eggs in dense vegetation to protect their young, as the parents do not look after them. Juveniles grow slowly, taking up to ten years to reach their full size.

Humans hunt this fish for food and sport, considering it a significant angling challenge. Beyond fishing, the species faces threats from beetle infestations and bacteria when dried for food. Dermestes beetles eat through the skin and contaminate the fish, causing major financial losses for local economies. Additionally, some sellers use toxic pesticides to preserve the meat, creating further risks for those who rely on the fish for protein.