The Red Tail Shark (Epalzeorhynchos bicolor) is a striking freshwater fish known for its deep black body contrasted by a bright red or orange tail fin. It is semi-aggressive, territorial, and adds bold color to community aquariums.
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The Red Tail Shark (Epalzeorhynchos bicolor) is a striking freshwater fish known for its deep black body contrasted by a bright red or orange tail fin. It is semi-aggressive, territorial, and adds bold color to community aquariums.
Elongated, laterally compressed body. Deep black body with vivid red or orange tail fin. Small eyes and forked tail. Adults reach up to 6 inches. Strong, agile swimmer adapted for bottom and mid-level activity.
6–8 years with proper care
Omnivorous; accepts high-quality flakes, pellets, and sinking foods. Supplement with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Occasional blanched vegetables such as zucchini or spinach are beneficial.
Red Tail Sharks are striking and energetic fish that thrive in large aquariums with appropriate tankmates. They are best kept in setups with plenty of hiding spaces to reduce territorial disputes.
Moderate – requires proper tank size, hiding spaces, and monitoring of territorial behavior.
55+ gallons
6.5 to 7.5
5–12 dGH
72–79°F (22–26°C)
6 inches
Peaceful community fish such as tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and barbs (non-aggressive). Avoid other Red Tail Sharks or similar-shaped fish in small tanks.
Other semi-aggressive or territorial fish of similar shape or size. Very small fish that may be harassed. Avoid slow-moving, delicate species.
Epalzeorhynchos bicolor
Cyprinidae
Thailand – rivers, streams, and floodplains with hiding spots and open areas.
Semi-aggressive; best kept with peaceful fish of different body shapes and similar size. Territorial towards similar fish.
Feed 2 times daily with flakes, pellets, and sinking foods. Supplement occasionally with live or frozen foods and blanched vegetables. Ensure a balanced diet for vibrant color and health.
Breeding in captivity is extremely difficult. Eggs are scattered over substrate with no parental care. Most Red Tail Sharks in the aquarium trade are wild-caught or captive-bred selectively.
pH: 6.5–7.5, Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C), Hardness: 5–12 dGH, Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm, Nitrate: <20 ppm
Sensitive to poor water quality; prone to stress, ich, and bacterial infections. Maintain stable water parameters and clean substrate.
Semi-aggressive and territorial, especially towards similar-shaped tankmates. Best kept with peaceful fish that occupy other tank levels. They establish territories along the bottom and mid-levels of the aquarium.
Native to Thailand, Red Tail Sharks inhabit rivers, streams, and floodplains. Adults can reach 6 inches and require a tank of at least 55 gallons with hiding spaces, caves, and open swimming areas. Providing high-quality food, stable water conditions, and ample territory ensures health, vibrant coloration, and natural behavior. Red Tail Sharks are excellent for adding visual contrast and activity to community tanks.