The Redtail Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus) is a striking freshwater fish known for its impressive size, distinctive appearance, and voracious appetite.
 
Appearance: As the name suggests, the Redtail Catfish is characterized by its distinctive red or orange tail fin. It has a sleek, elongated body with a dark gray to blackish coloration on the upper body and sides, often adorned with small white spots. The belly area is typically lighter in color. Juveniles may have more vibrant red coloration on their tails, which may fade slightly as they mature.
Size: Redtail Catfish are one of the largest freshwater catfish species in the aquarium trade. In the wild, they can reach lengths of over 4 feet (120 centimeters) and weigh over 100 pounds (45 kilograms). In captivity, they usually grow to around 24 to 36 inches (61 to 91 centimeters) in length within a few years, depending on tank size and diet.
Habitat: Redtail Catfish are native to South America, where they inhabit slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and freshwater lakes throughout the Amazon and Orinoco river basins. They prefer warm, tropical waters with plenty of hiding spots among submerged vegetation, fallen trees, and rocky structures.
Behavior: Despite their large size, Redtail Catfish are generally peaceful and docile towards tankmates of similar size. However, they are highly predatory and will consume smaller fish that can fit into their mouth. Due to their eventual size, they require spacious aquariums and ample hiding spots to feel secure.
Diet: Redtail Catfish are opportunistic carnivores with a hearty appetite. In the wild, they feed on a variety of prey, including fish, crustaceans, insects, and even small mammals. In captivity, they readily accept a varied diet consisting of high-protein foods such as pellets, live or frozen fish, shrimp, earthworms, and other meaty treats. It's essential to provide a balanced diet to ensure their overall health and vitality.
Tank Requirements: Due to their large size and active swimming habits, Redtail Catfish require a spacious aquarium with a minimum capacity of 300 gallons for a single adult specimen. Larger tanks or custom-built setups may be necessary as they grow. Provide plenty of hiding spots, large caves, and sturdy decorations to accommodate their size and behavior.
Compatibility: While Redtail Catfish are generally peaceful towards tankmates of similar size, their predatory nature and eventual size make them unsuitable for most community aquariums. They are best kept with large, robust tankmates that are too large to be considered prey. Avoid housing them with small or delicate fish species.
Tankmates: Potential tankmates for Redtail Catfish include large cichlids, other large catfish species, and non-aggressive freshwater predators. It's crucial to research and carefully select tankmates that can coexist peacefully with Redtail Catfish and withstand their size and potential aggression.
 
*Due to natural variations, the product may differ  in appearance from the picture provided.*