Wolf Fish (Hoplias malabaricus)

Fish in the family Erythrinidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameHoplias malabaricus

FamilyErythrinidae

Also known asCommon Wolffish, Trahira, Tiger Wolffish

Care levelHard

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size20 in

Minimum tank size125 gallons

Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 4-16 dGH

Appearance

Stout cylindrical mottled brown-grey body with a large bony head, powerful jaws lined with sharp canine teeth, and rounded fins.

Difficulty and care for the Wolf Fish

Hard

Origin and habitat

Central and South America

Keeper notes

A powerful, toothy ambush predator that will attack and swallow almost any tankmate and can deliver a serious bite to careless hands; best kept alone. Air-breather that can survive out of water briefly. Strong jumper requiring a heavy sealed lid.

Log Wolf Fish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Wolf Fish alongside everything else in your reef.

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