Can Achara Catfish and Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish) Live Together?

Possible with Caution

Keeping Achara Catfish and Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish) together is possible but requires caution, though some care is needed. Provide a spacious tank of at least 1500 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Achara Catfish

Leiarius marmoratus

Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish)

Datnioides polota

🐠Family Group
Achara Catfish
Catfish
Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish)
Oddballs
Temperament
Achara Catfish
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish)
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Achara Catfish
22–28°C
Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish)
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Achara Catfish
6–7.5
Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish)
7–8.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Achara Catfish
4–15
Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish)
10–25
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Achara Catfish
Freshwater Only
Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish)
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Achara Catfish
Moderate
Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 1500 L
Achara Catfish
1500 L
Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish)
450 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Achara Catfish
Bottom
Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish)
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Achara Catfish
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)NocturnalShrimp EaterFry PredatorDigger (Disturbs Substrate)
Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish)
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Shrimp EaterShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Achara Catfish and Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish)?

Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.

Achara Catfish
Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish)
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Achara Catfish and Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish) are moderately assertive species with an aggression score of 6/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

Achara Catfish and Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish) both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Worth noting: Achara Catfish is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Achara Catfish and Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 1500 litres with a minimum length of 240 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Achara Catfish and Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish) live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 1500 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Achara Catfish and Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish) need?

A minimum of 1500 litres (tank length at least 240 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.

What water temperature is best for Achara Catfish and Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish) together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Achara Catfish or Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish) aggressive?

Achara Catfish is moderately assertive (6/10) and Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish) is moderately assertive (6/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Achara Catfish and Silver Datnoid (Silver Tigerfish) need?

Both species overlap in the 7–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Does Achara Catfish being nocturnal affect compatibility?

Achara Catfish is most active after lights-out, which naturally reduces daytime encounters with its tank mate. This can actually be beneficial, as both fish get undisturbed time to feed and explore. Just ensure food reaches Achara Catfish during evening hours.


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