Red Tail Shark
Epalzeorhynchos bicolor

General: Redtail sharks originate from the waterways of Thailand, although in current times they are almost extinct from the wild. The aquarium hobby has essentially provided a safety net for redtail sharks, whereas they are currently raised at fish farms. Redtail sharks prefer aquarium setups that are modeled after their riverine habitats, with small to medium sized gravel and a noticeable water current to help provide extra oxygen. Redtail sharks are a great addition to the semi-aggressive community aquarium if cared for properly.

Dimorphism: It has been stated by some that females are slightly larger than males. Since this species has not been bred in the home aquarium, there is still a lot to learn about it.

Fecundity: Redtail sharks have not been bred in the home aquarium. All redtail sharks found in stores originate from fish farms.

Water Chemistry: 72-79° F, KH 10-15, pH 6.5-7.5

Aquarium Diet: Redtail sharks are omnivores and especially have a preference for algae, so algae wafers are highly recommended. It also will enjoy fish flakes, small pellets, and frozen food such as brine shrimp and blood worms.

Compatibility: Redtail sharks are semi-aggressive and will tend to go after species of their own kind and species with long fins. Some possible tankmates may include loaches such as dojo loaches (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) and clown loaches (Chromobotia macracanthus), barbs such as cherry barbs (Puntius titteya), medium to large sized rasboras such as the harlequin rasbora (Trigonostigma heteromorpha), and medium to larger sized tetras such as pristella tetras (Pristella maxillaris) and phantom tetras (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus).