Redtail Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus) - Live Fish

DESCRIPTION OF ITEM:

The Redtail Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus) is a striking and large species of freshwater catfish native to the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in South America. It is known for its distinctive appearance, including its vibrant red tail and massive size, which makes it a popular but challenging species to keep in aquariums.

Key Characteristics:

• Size: The Redtail Catfish is known for its large size, growing up to 5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters) in the wild, though it is often smaller in captivity. They typically grow around 3-4 feet (1-1.2 meters) in well-maintained aquariums. Because of their size, they require very large tank setups, making them unsuitable for most home aquariums.

• Appearance:

  • The Redtail Catfish has a sleek, elongated body with light grayish or brownish coloration, and its most notable feature is its bright red tail, which contrasts beautifully with the rest of its body.
  • Its head is large and wide, with a pair of long, sensitive barbels (whiskers) on either side of the mouth, which help it sense food in the murky waters of its natural habitat.
  • It has a large dorsal fin and a broad tail fin, which gives it a graceful yet powerful swimming ability.

• Lifespan: In the wild, Redtail Catfish can live for up to 15-20 years, but in captivity, their lifespan is often shorter due to limited space and other environmental factors.

Behavior and Temperament:

• Active and Social: The Redtail Catfish is an active swimmer and tends to be social, often schooling with other fish in the wild. In captivity, they may be kept alone or with other large, peaceful fish. They can be territorial and aggressive, especially when they are not given enough space.

• Carnivorous: These catfish are carnivorous and will hunt and scavenge for a variety of prey, including smaller fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic animals.

• Potential for Aggression: As they grow, they can become aggressive, particularly toward smaller fish, which makes them unsuitable for a community tank with small or delicate species.

Habitat and Tank Requirements:

• Origin: Native to the Amazon, Orinoco, and other major rivers in South America.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: They thrive in warm water, typically between 75-82°F (24-28°C).
  • pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, with a range of 6.5 to 7.5 pH.
  • Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is ideal.

• Tank Size: Due to their large size, Redtail Catfish require a massive tank with a minimum of 500 gallons (1,900 liters) for adults. Inadequate tank size can lead to stunted growth and health problems. These fish need plenty of swimming space and should not be kept in small or overcrowded tanks.

Diet:

• Carnivorous: In their natural habitat, Redtail Catfish are carnivores, and they feed on a wide range of prey, including:
  • Live or frozen fish (smaller fish, including feeder fish)
  • Crustaceans, such as shrimp
  • Worms and invertebrates
  • Pellets: In captivity, they can also be trained to accept high-quality sinking pellets.
• Feeding Frequency: They should be fed 2-3 times a week as juveniles and less frequently as they grow larger.

Special Considerations:

• Space: As mentioned, they require large aquariums, and adequate filtration is necessary to maintain water quality due to their large size and high waste production.

• Tankmates: Redtail Catfish should only be housed with other large, robust species that can withstand their potential for aggression. Avoid small or slow-moving species that may become prey. Examples of compatible tankmates include large cichlids, other large catfish, and big characins.

• Growth and Development: Due to their potential for rapid growth and the size they can reach, it is important to plan for a large tank or pond if you intend to keep this species long-term. Many hobbyists opt to keep them in public aquariums or specialized fish ponds where space and water conditions can be properly managed.

Conclusion:

The Redtail Catfish is a majestic and impressive fish that can be a rewarding species for the experienced aquarium keeper who has the resources and space to meet its needs. However, due to its large size and potential for aggression, it is not suited for typical home aquariums and requires careful planning and commitment.