Common Name: NGT Datnoid
Scientific Name: Datnioides campbelli
Other Names: New Guinea Tigerfish, NGT, Fuzzy Bar Datnoid, Campbell's Tigerfish
The NGT Datnoid is a striking freshwater fish known for its bold tiger-like stripes and robust body. Its body is typically golden yellow with distinct black vertical stripes, giving it a tiger-like appearance. The NGT Datnoid is highly sought after by aquarists for its vibrant coloration and dynamic behavior.
Habitat and Distribution:
The NGT Datnoid is native to the freshwater rivers and estuaries of New Guinea, specifically in both Papua New Guinea and Indonesia. They inhabit slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and brackish water environments with plenty of submerged vegetation and debris, which provide hiding spots and hunting grounds.
Size and Lifespan:
In both the wild and captivity, NGT Datnoids can grow up to 12-16 inches (30-40 cm) in length. With proper care, their lifespan can range from 10 to 15 years, depending on the quality of their diet and water conditions.
Diet and Behavior:
NGT Datnoids are carnivorous, feeding primarily on small fish, crustaceans, and other meaty foods in their natural habitat. In an aquarium, their diet should include high-quality carnivorous pellets, live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and small pieces of fish or shrimp. These fish are ambush predators and can be territorial, especially towards smaller tank mates. They are best kept in a species-only tank or with similarly sized, robust, non-aggressive fish.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding NGT Datnoids in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved. Little is documented about their breeding habits in the wild. They are believed to spawn in brackish environments. To encourage breeding, provide a spacious tank with optimal water conditions and a mix of fresh and brackish water. Successful breeding typically requires very large, well-maintained tanks with specific water parameters.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
Due to their large size and predatory nature, NGT Datnoids require a very large aquarium, with a minimum of 150-200 gallons recommended for adult specimens. The tank should have a soft, sandy or fine gravel substrate to prevent injury to their delicate barbels. Include plenty of hiding spots created with rocks, driftwood, and dense vegetation to mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintain water quality. The water temperature should be kept between 75-82°F (24-28°C), with a pH of 6.5-7.5 and soft to moderately hard water. If kept in brackish conditions, a salinity level of around 1.005-1.010 specific gravity is recommended.
Ideal Tank Mates:
NGT Datnoids can be kept with other large, peaceful fish that share similar water parameter requirements. Suitable tank mates include large cichlids, larger catfish, and similarly sized robust fish. Avoid housing them with small or delicate species that may become targets of predation.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate to Advanced. Keeping NGT Datnoids requires a deep understanding of their needs, including their large size, predatory behavior, and specific water quality requirements. They are best suited for experienced aquarists with the space and resources to provide proper care.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 6.5-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 8-20 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 4-10 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm (ideal)
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Nitrite: 0 ppm (ideal)
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (ideal)
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Salinity (if brackish): 1.005-1.010 specific gravity
Additional Information:
- The NGT Datnoid’s vibrant stripes and dynamic behavior make it a striking addition to any large aquarium.
- They are known for their ambush predator tactics, often remaining still and then quickly striking at prey.
- Fun fact: NGT Datnoids have a highly developed lateral line system that helps them detect movements and vibrations in the water, making them effective hunters.
