Can Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Pacific Sturgeon Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 7, 2026
Not Recommended

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Pacific Sturgeon are not recommended as tank mates due to no temperature overlap. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.


At a Glance

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)

Datnioides microlepis

Pacific Sturgeon

Acipenser transmontanus

🐟Family Group
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Oddballs
Pacific Sturgeon
Oddballs
Temperament
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Pacific Sturgeon
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Temperature
✗ No overlap
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
24–28°C
Pacific Sturgeon
10–22°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
6.5–7.5
Pacific Sturgeon
6.5–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
5–15
Pacific Sturgeon
4–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Freshwater Only
Pacific Sturgeon
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Moderate
Pacific Sturgeon
High
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 20000 L
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
680 L
Pacific Sturgeon
20000 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
MiddleBottom
Pacific Sturgeon
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorAggressive to same species/look-alikesShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Pacific Sturgeon
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerShrimp EaterSnail EaterAggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Pacific Sturgeon?

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.

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Pacific Sturgeon
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) is a moderately assertive species (6/10), while Pacific Sturgeon is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) may occasionally assert dominance over Pacific Sturgeon.

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Pacific Sturgeon 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.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. Aggressive eaters may outcompete shy fish for food, leading to malnutrition.

Water Parameters

There is no temperature overlap between Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) (24–28°C) and Pacific Sturgeon (10–22°C). This fundamental mismatch makes long-term cohabitation impractical.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 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 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Pacific Sturgeon together, plan for an aquarium of at least 20000 litres with a minimum length of 600 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Densely covered, Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). 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.

Why This Pairing Usually Fails in Practice

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Pacific Sturgeon are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.

Diet & Feeding

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Pacific Sturgeon is an aggressive eater that may prevent Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) from getting enough food.

Because Pacific Sturgeon is a fast, competitive feeder, consider using sinking pellets or feeding at opposite ends of the setup to ensure Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) receives an adequate share.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Pacific Sturgeon live together?

No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as non-overlapping temperature ranges — make cohabitation unsafe.

What size tank do Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Pacific Sturgeon need?

A minimum of 20000 litres (tank length at least 600 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 Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Pacific Sturgeon together?

Unfortunately, there is no temperature range that satisfies both species. Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) requires 24–28°C, while Pacific Sturgeon needs 10–22°C.

Are Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) or Pacific Sturgeon aggressive?

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) is moderately assertive (6/10) and Pacific Sturgeon is generally mild-mannered (3/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Pacific Sturgeon need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 7, 2026
Last updated
May 7, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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