A massive, fast-growing predatory catfish from the Amazon basin. Famous for its voracious appetite, bulldozer-like behavior, and distinct red caudal fin. Due to its enormous adult size (often exceeding 4 feet), it is strictly a 'monster fish' that requires a heated indoor pond or a colossal custom aquarium. It is highly predatory and will swallow absolutely any tank mate that can fit into its cavernous mouth.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard (Adult)
The fully grown adult Red-Tail Catfish. Requires heavy-duty filtration, bare-bottom or sand substrate, and a tank or pond measured in thousands of liters.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Adult, Monster, Full Grown
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Juveniles are commonly sold at 5-10cm. They grow at an astonishing rate (often up to an inch per month initially) and possess an incredibly fast metabolism. They must only be purchased if a pond or custom tank upgrade is already planned.
Differs in 5 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby, Juvenile, RTC Baby
Red-Tail Catfish Care Summary
The Red-Tail Catfish, scientifically known as Phractocephalus hemioliopterus, belongs to the Catfish family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 120 cm and have a depressed body shape with a fast growth rate. Classified as aggressive, this species primarily occupies the bottom zone of the aquarium and produces a extreme level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Red-Tail Catfish requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 3800 litres and a tank length of at least 300 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 20°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6–7.5 and a general hardness of 3–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. To replicate their natural habitat, the tank should include sand (sifters), smooth gravel (sensitive barbels), and driftwood (digestion/hiding).
Red-Tail Catfish can be kept singly or in a group, making them flexible additions to most setups. Keepers should be aware that this species will prey on fish small enough to fit in its mouth, may uproot or eat live plants, and is primarily active at night or during twilight hours. This species is available in 2 varieties: Standard (Adult) and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Similar Species
Panda Corydoras
Corydoras panda
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Pictus Catfish
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Clown Knifefish
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A massive, nocturnal predator native to Southeast Asia, widely known for the distinct row of ocellated spots above its anal fin. While sold as small silvery cute juveniles, they grow incredibly fast into nearly 1-meter giants that require immense aquariums. They are obligate carnivores and will eat any fish small enough to fit in their large mouths. They are shy during the day and require large hiding tubes or caves.
Red Rainbowfish
Glossolepis incisus
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Sterba's Corydoras
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A highly popular and peaceful schooling catfish known for its striking white-on-black spotted pattern and bright orange pectoral fins. Uniquely among Corydoras, they thrive in higher temperatures, making them excellent bottom-dwelling companions for warm-water species like Discus. They are obligate shoalers and must be kept on fine sand to prevent the erosion and infection of their delicate barbels.
Amano Shrimp
Caridina multidentata
A highly popular, industrious freshwater shrimp renowned for its unmatched algae-eating abilities. Popularized by aquascaper Takashi Amano, they are significantly larger and hardier than most dwarf shrimp (like Cherry Shrimp). They are notorious food-thieves during feeding time and excellent escape artists, requiring a tight-fitting lid. Their larvae require saltwater to develop, so they will not overpopulate in a freshwater aquarium.