Top Predator Fish for Monster Aquariums & Their Tank Requirements

If you’re someone who loves the thrill of keeping giant, powerful fish, then predator fish are the stars of your dream tank! These fish are bold, active, and sometimes even have their own personalities. But they also need huge tanks, strong filtration, and the right tank mates.

Why Choose Predator Fish

Predator fish are known for their:

• Large size and impressive appearance

• Unique behaviors and feeding styles

• Bold movement and strong presence in the tank

• Thrilling feeding times 

Top Predator Fish for Monster Aquariums 

1. Arowana (Silver, Asian, Black, Jardini) 

Arowanas are known as the dragons of the aquarium world. They are long, shiny, and full of attitude.

• Tank Size: Minimum 6 ft (681+ liters)

• Filtration: Powerful sump or canister filter

• Feeding: Pellets, insects, prawns, fish (no live feeding preferred)

• Tank Mates: Other large, non-aggressive fish

• Needs a tight lid – they are jumpers

  
  

2. Peacock Bass

These fish are natural hunters and grow super fast. They’re super active and love open swimming spaces.

• Tank Size: Minimum 7 ft (946+ liters)

• Filtration: Heavy duty – high waste producers

• Feeding: Pellets, fish, worms, prawns

• Tank Mates: Arowana, Stingray, Giant Gourami

• Best kept in a species-only or large predator tank.

  
  

3. Redtail Catfish (RTC) 

Known for its massive size and power, RTC is not for small tanks. They grow fast and need tons of space.

• Tank Size: Minimum 1000+ liters (8 ft+)

• Filtration: Very strong sump filter needed

• Feeding: Fish, meat, pellets, prawns

• Tank Mates: Only other giants, or alone

• Not safe with smaller fish – will eat anything that fits in its mouth

4. Giant Snakehead

Snakeheads are aggressive, powerful predators. Not legal in all countries, so check local laws.

• Tank Size: Minimum 6-8 ft (1135+ liters)

• Filtration: High-capacity external or sump

• Feeding: Fish, meat, insects, worms

• Tank Mates: Usually kept alone due to aggression

• For experienced hobbyists only.

  
  

5. Tiger Shovelnose Catfish

This catfish is beautiful and powerful, known for its unique shovel-like mouth.

• Tank Size: Minimum 7 ft (946+ liters)

• Filtration: Monster sump setup

• Feeding: Fish meat, prawns, worms

• Tank Mates: Other large catfish, arowanas

• Will eat anything small enough to swallow.

6. Datnoid (Tiger Fish) 

Datnoids are highly prized predator fish with gold and black tiger stripes. They're not too aggressive and can be tank-friendly predators.

• Tank Size: Minimum 5 ft (567 liters)

• Filtration: Medium to high power

• Feeding: Carnivorous diet – worms, prawns, fish

• Tank Mates: Stingray, Arowana, big peaceful fish

• Shy at first, but very rewarding over time

  
  

Tank Requirements for Predator Fish

Keeping predator fish means serious setup planning. Here's what you need to keep in mind:

• Tank Size

Monster fish need monster tanks. Never compromise on size—it affects their health and behavior.

• Powerful Filtration

These fish are messy eaters and create a lot of waste. Use:

• Sump filters

• External canister filters with heavy media load

  
  

• Secure Lids

Many predators are strong jumpers. Always use a tight-fitting lid.

• Decor & Layout

Keep decor minimal with strong rocks, driftwood, and large hiding areas. Avoid sharp edges.

• Feeding

Stick to quality pellets, frozen food, and fresh meat. Avoid feeder fish to reduce disease risk.

Are Predator Fish Right for You

Predator fish are not for everyone. Ask yourself:

• Do I have space for a monster tank?

• Can I afford the filtration and setup?

• Am I ready to handle large, sometimes aggressive fish?

• Do I have time for regular maintenance?

  
  

Adding predator fish to your monster aquarium brings thrill, beauty, and action to your fishkeeping journey. But it also comes with responsibility. Always research the fish, provide the right tank setup, and feed them a balanced diet.

• Best all-rounder? → Arowana.

• Most active? → Peacock Bass.

• Biggest eater? → Redtail Catfish.

• Most unique look? → Tiger Shovelnose.

• Beginner predator? → Datnoid.