Redtail Catfish - 6cm

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Phractocephalus hemioliopterus
• Common Name: Redtail Catfish
• Adult Size: Up to 4–5 feet (120–150 cm) in the wild; typically 3–4 feet (90–120 cm) in captivity
• Life Expectancy: 15–20 years with proper care
• Habitat: Native to large rivers, lakes, and flooded forest areas of the Amazon, Orinoco, and Essequibo River basins in South America

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 1,000+ gallons (3,785+ liters) for a single adult
• Ideal Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–12 dGH)
• Temperament: Generally peaceful but predatory; will eat smaller fish and invertebrates—best kept alone or with similarly large, robust tank mates

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes
• Diet: Prefers a carnivorous diet—feeds on fish, shrimp, worms, and sinking meaty pellets; can accept some plant-based foods, but primarily requires high protein

Appearance

• Coloration: Dark gray to black dorsal body with a white underside and a vivid red or orange tail fin
• Body Shape: Long, thick body with a broad, flat head and prominent barbels (whiskers)

Distinctive Features

• Red or orange caudal (tail) fin that contrasts with its otherwise dark body
• Barbels are freasused for navigation and detecting food in murky water
• Extremely rapid growth rate, especially in the first year of life
• Requires massive filtration due to high bioload and waste output