Redtail Catfish / Phractocephalus hemioliopterus - Live Freshwater Fish

Common Name: Redtail Catfish Scientific Name: Phractocephalus hemioliopterus Other Names: Red-tailed Catfish The Redtail Catfish is a large and visually striking species known for its distinctive coloration. It has a broad, cylindrical body with a dark gray or black back and a white underbelly. The most notable feature is its bright red tail, which contrasts sharply against its darker body. This species also has long barbels around its mouth, typical of many catfish. Habitat and Distribution: Native to South America, Redtail Catfish are found in the Amazon, Orinoco, and Essequibo river basins. They inhabit a variety of freshwater environments, including large rivers, streams, and flooded forests, preferring areas with slow to moderate current. Size and Lifespan: Redtail Catfish can grow to an immense size, often reaching over 4 feet in length and weighing over 100 pounds in the wild. In captivity, they may not reach their full wild size but still require very large tanks to accommodate their growth. They can live for 15 years or more with proper care. Diet and Behavior: This species is primarily a bottom feeder and is omnivorous. In the wild, their diet includes fish, crustaceans, fruits, and seeds. In captivity, they should be fed a varied diet that includes large pellets, frozen foods like shrimp and fish, and occasional fruits and vegetables. Redtail Catfish are generally solitary and can be aggressive towards smaller fish, which they may see as prey. Breeding and Reproduction: Breeding Redtail Catfish in home aquariums is extremely rare and not well-documented. In the wild, they migrate to flooded areas to spawn during the rainy season. Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements: Due to their potential size, Redtail Catfish are not suitable for most home aquariums. They require a very large tank, with a recommended minimum size of 1000 gallons for an adult. The tank should have a strong filtration system and ample space for swimming. Ideal Tank Mates: Given their size and predatory nature, keeping Redtail Catfish with other fish is challenging. They are best kept alone or with very large, robust species that can coexist peacefully. Smaller fish will likely be eaten. Difficulty Level: Advanced/Expert. Their massive size, specific dietary needs, and tank requirements make them suitable only for experienced aquarists with the capability to provide a large enough environment. Water Parameters: Temperature: 68-79°F (20-26°C) pH: 6.0-7.5 General Hardness (GH): 5-20 dGH Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-10 dKH Ammonia: 0 ppm Nitrite: 0 ppm Nitrate: <20 ppm Additional Information: Redtail Catfish are often purchased as small juveniles but grow quickly, making them unsuitable for most private aquaria. They are known for their voracious appetite and can inadvertently swallow decorations or smaller tank mates. In public aquariums and large ponds, they can be a spectacular display species due to their size and distinctive appearance. We take great pride in our packaging and losses are a very rare occurrence, even when shipments are unexpectedly delayed. Live arrival is always guaranteed on every order, given the conditions below are met. If there are any DOA's in your order, we will offer you a full refund for the value of the lost livestock minus any shipping charges. Shipping charges are non-refundable. Conditions of Live Arrival Guarantee 1. The package must be received on the first delivery attempt. 2. The package must be sent to the correct address and not a forwarding address. 3. Temperatures in your area must be between 50-90 °F. If the weather in your area is outside of this range, you must contact us prior to placing your order otherwise our Guarantee will be void. 4. You must notify us within 2 hours of delivery and provide clear photos of the lost item, both inside of the sealed unopened bag as well as laid on a dry surface. We are not responsible for any losses that occur after the fish is removed from the bag or beyond 2 hours after the marked delivery time, so please make sure that you are available to receive your fish as soon as they arrive and that your tank is ready to accept new livestock.