Phractocephalus hemioliopterus
| Common Names: | Redtail Catfish |
| Synonyms: | Silurus hemioliopterus |
| Family: | Pimelodidae |
| Category: | Catfish_Bottom_Feeders |
| Distribution: | America - South; South America |
| Main Ecosystem: | River; River |
| Temperament: | Peaceful; Peaceful but predatory. Will eat anything it can fit into its large mouth. |
| Diet: | Ominvore; Ominvore |
| Care: | Feed crustaceans, fish, fruit, beefheart, and sinking carnivore pellets. A big tank with large caves is required. |
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| Potential Size: | Male: 140cm (55.1") Female: 140cm (55.1") |
| Water Region: | Bottom; Bottom |
| Activity: | Nocturnal; Nocturnal |
| Gender: | Cannot be determind via external features. |
| Breeding: | Not heard of in home aquaria. |
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| Comments: | Usually not suitable for home aquaria due to the potential size of this fish. Thanks to James Meehan for submitting this profile. While the species continues to be imported, it is NOT recommended that aquarists other than experienced and dedicated large catfish keepers even attempt to house this fish, as its VERY large adult size is attained with surprising speed. Capable of growing two feet in its first year of life. An aquarium large enough to house an adult Red Tailed Catfish is a project on an epic scale, and will involve the aquarist in some interesting civil engineering logistics even before the first drop of water is added. If in doubt, leave well alone and treat it as a public aquarium only fish. The capital expense of a suitable home should on its own deter all but the seriously dedicated. |
| Main Colours: | Grey, White, Red |
| Markings: | Striped Horizontal |
| Mouth: | Downturned |
| Tail: | Forked |
| Search: | Show similar species Find compatible species |
| Image Credit: | © FishProfiles.com |
| Submitted By: | Adam |
| Contributors: | Natalie, Calilasseia, zachf92 |
| History: | View changes to this profile |
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