Catfish-Redtail (30-40mm)

All our fish, shrimp and corals are bagged with fresh oxygen as well as a heat pack in winter.

When ordering livestock please select the box size and add it to your cart for accurate overnight (1-2 days) shipping costs. A small box can take 1-2 bags and a medium box 6 bags. One bag fits max 10 small (1-3cm) fish or max 2 medium (3-5cm) fish or max 1 large (>5cm) fish.

ONE SPECIES PER BAG. Eg: One bag of 10 neon tetra.

Redtail Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus)

Description:

• Appearance:

  • Body: Large, elongated, and robust with a streamlined shape. Known for their impressive size and powerful build.
  • Color: Dark brown or grayish body with a prominent bright red or orange tail. They also have pale undersides and distinctive dark spots or bands.
  • Size: Typically grows to 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) in length. In large, spacious environments, they can grow even larger, up to 5 feet (150 cm).

• Behavior:

  • Activity: Generally active and strong swimmers. They spend a lot of time patrolling their territory and foraging for food.
  • Social Structure: Can be territorial and aggressive, especially as they mature. It is often best to keep them with other large fish or in a species-specific tank.

Care Requirements:

• Tank Size:

  • Minimum of 300 gallons (1135 liters); larger tanks are highly recommended to accommodate their growth and provide ample swimming space.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 74-82°F (23-28°C).
  • pH: 6.5-7.5.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
  • Filtration: Powerful filtration is essential to maintain clean water due to their large size and high waste production. A robust filtration system with a high flow rate is necessary, but avoid creating strong currents that might stress the fish.

• Tank Setup:

  • Substrate: Soft substrate like sand or fine gravel is preferred. They need a comfortable area to rest and forage without damaging their barbels.
  • Aquascaping: Include large rocks, driftwood, and minimal decorations. They require plenty of open swimming space, so avoid overcrowding the tank with decorations.
  • Lighting: Standard aquarium lighting is adequate. They are not particularly sensitive to lighting but benefit from having shaded areas and hiding spots.

• Diet:

  • Primary Food: Carnivorous; feed a varied diet including high-quality pellets, live or frozen foods such as fish, shrimp, and worms. They are opportunistic feeders and require a protein-rich diet.
  • Supplemental Food: Offer occasional treats like larger pieces of meat or live prey to ensure they receive a balanced diet.

• Behavioral Considerations:

  • Compatibility: Generally best kept with other large, robust fish. Avoid small or aggressive species that may provoke or become prey. They can be territorial, so ensure they have enough space to establish their territory.
  • Social Behavior: Prefer to be in a large tank where they can have their own space. They are best suited for experienced aquarium keepers who can provide the appropriate environment and care.

• Tank Maintenance:

  • Water Changes: Perform regular water changes (20-30% weekly) to maintain water quality and reduce the buildup of toxins.
  • Cleaning: Regularly clean the tank and remove any uneaten food or waste. Ensure the filtration system is functioning properly and is suitable for their size and waste production.

• Health Care:

  • Observation: Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or visible symptoms like discoloration or fin damage.
  • Treatment: Maintain optimal water conditions and consult an aquarium professional if any health issues arise. Address any signs of disease promptly to ensure the health of your fish.