Tanganyika Lates
Image: <bdi><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/en:George_Albert_Boulenger" class="extiw" title="w:en:George Albert Boulenger"><span title="Belgian-British zoologist (1858–1937), member of the Accademia delle Scienze di Torino from 1900">George Albert Boulenger</span></a></bdi> (Public domain)
NameTanganyika Lates
Scientific NameLates microlepis
Common NamesTanganyika Lates, Tanganyika Perch, Bigeye Lates
FamilyLatidae
OriginLake Tanganyika, East Africa
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)1000
Max Size (Inches)43
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range7.8-9.0
Compatible SpeciesNone (due to predatory nature and size)
Description
Lates microlepis, also known as the Tanganyika Lates or Bigeye Lates, is a large, predatory freshwater fish endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. It is an apex predator, feeding primarily on other fish and crustaceans. Due to its immense size and specialized care requirements, it is rarely kept in home aquariums and is more suited for public aquaria.
