[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Catfish – Red-tailed Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus)

This catfish is exceptional in that its coloration remains bright and distinct, even in large specimens. It is undoubtedly one of the most attractive of all large catfish, and offers the extra advantage that it can become very tame. On the downside is its eventual large size—an important factor that needs careful consideration. The small, commercially bred juveniles that are generally available will, in appropriate conditions, grow into giants in a relatively short period of time.

Family

• Pimelodidae

Distribution

• Widely distributed in the Amazon basin.

Size

• Up to 4ft (1.2m).

Behavior

• Highly predatory.

Diet

• Large livefoods, including fish, preferred (a factor that requires consideration prior to purchase). Chunky meat- or fish-based foods and commercial formulations may be accepted.

Aquarium

• Large, well covered, well filtered, with some large pieces of decor. Water chemistry not critical but quality must be good. Temperature range: 70—81 F (21-27C).

Breeding

• No documented accounts of aquarium breeding currently available, although the species has been bred commercially.