(145) Datnoid NTT 6-7in

The NTT datnoid (Datnioides undecimradiatus) is a species of tiger perch known for its striking banded pattern and is a sought-after fish among experienced aquarium keepers. NTT stands for Northern Thailand Tigerfish, referencing its origin in the Mekong River system. It is sometimes called the Thai Tigerfish or Thailand Datnoid.

• Coloration: Unlike some other datnoid species that can fade, the NTT datnoid is known for its stable color pattern. It has a yellowish body with wide, dark vertical bands that resemble a tiger's stripes.
• Body shape: The NTT datnoid has a deep, compressed, and powerful body with a high back, giving it a somewhat stocky appearance.
• Size: In a home aquarium, this species typically reaches a maximum size of 16 to 18 inches, but it can grow larger in the wild.
• Behavior: Datnoids are ambush predators that tend to hover motionless in the water, often near submerged structures or vegetation, waiting for prey to pass by. They can become more confident over time and interactive with their owners. 

• Tank size: A large aquarium is essential to provide adequate swimming and territory space for this species. A tank of 125 gallons or more is recommended for an adult.
• Water parameters: They prefer stable and pristine water conditions.
  • Temperature: Maintain a tropical temperature of 75–82°F (24–28°C).
  • pH: While they can tolerate a range of pH levels, stability is more important than a specific number. They can thrive in neutral to slightly alkaline water.
• Aquascape: Decorate the tank with plenty of hiding spots and visual barriers using driftwood, large rocks, and artificial or hardy plants. This mimics their natural habitat and reduces stress. 

• Carnivorous diet: As predatory fish, NTT datnoids primarily eat meaty foods.
• Food types: A varied diet is best. Offer high-quality pellets, frozen foods such as krill, shrimp, and mussels, and occasional live foods like feeder fish. It's recommended to wean them off live foods to prevent introducing disease and for better long-term nutrition. 

• Semi-aggressive temperament: While generally peaceful toward similarly sized fish, they will eat any tank mate small enough to fit in their mouths.
• Suitable companions: Good tank mates are other large, semi-aggressive fish that can handle similar water parameters. Some compatible species include arowanas, stingrays, larger bichirs, and other large cichlids.
• Solo or group? In a large enough tank, datnoids can be kept in a group, which can reduce aggression among them. Keeping them singly is also an option, as they are naturally solitary.