Genus of fishes
Hydrocynus is a genus of characin fish in the family Alestidae commonly called "tigerfish," native to Africa. The genus name is derived from Ancient Greek ὕδωρ ("water") + κύων ("dog"). The genus contains five species, all commonly known as "African tigerfish" for their fierce predatory behaviour and other characteristics that make them excellent game fish. "Hydrocynus" are normally piscivorous, but "H. vittatus" is proven to prey on birds in flight.
Evolutionary history.
The earliest fossils which have been identified as belonging to "Hydrocynus" are dated as Late Miocene, and have been found from the Chad, Maronga, Turkana and Semliki basins of northern and eastern Africa, in all of which "Hydrocynus" species still occur. The oldest lineage appears to be that of "Hydrocynus goliath", while lineages of "H. brevis" and "H. forskahlii" diverged in the Late Miocene and Pliocene while the lineages which formed "H. tanzaniae" and the ""vittatus" complex" appear in the Pliocene.
Species.
Five species of "Hydrocynus" tigerfish are currently recognised.
Economic importance.
The different species tigerfish are among the most important and popular game fish species in Africa and as a result they are an important asset to the various tourist industries. They are also one of the most important components of commercial freshwater catches in Africa.
Notes and references.
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