Care and Compatibility of Red-tailed Catfish - Phractocephalus hemioliopterus

Introduction

The Red-tailed Catfish, scientifically known as Phractocephalus hemioliopterus, is a freshwater fish native to South America, specifically the Amazon basin and the Orinoco River. It has an elongated and robust body, with a generally dark coloration and a striking red tail that gives it its common name. They can grow to impressive sizes, reaching over a meter in length under ideal conditions.

Behavior

The Red-tailed Catfish is a calm and nocturnal fish. During the day, they tend to hide in caves, logs, or among plants in the aquarium. They are peaceful fish that get along well with other species of similar size and calm habits. They are excellent swimmers and can move quickly when they feel threatened or when searching for food.

Sexual Dimorphism

Sexual dimorphism in Phractocephalus hemioliopterus is minimal and difficult to distinguish. Both males and females have a similar appearance.

Reproduction

Reproduction of Red-tailed Catfish in captivity is extremely rare and difficult to achieve. Information about their reproduction in the aquarium is limited. In the wild, it is believed that they migrate to flood areas during the rainy season to reproduce. Due to their size and specific reproductive needs, it is not common for them to breed in the home environment.

Aquarium Conditions

Phractocephalus hemioliopterus, commonly known as the redtail catfish, requires a large and well-filtered aquarium with plenty of space to swim and explore. It prefers neutral to slightly acidic water. Aquarium décor should include hiding spots and refuge areas. Maintaining water quality is crucial and providing a varied diet.

Feeding

The Red-tailed Catfish is a carnivorous predator and feeds primarily on small fish and crustaceans. In the aquarium, they can be offered live foods such as small fish, shrimp, or mussels. They will also accept frozen foods or high-quality pellets designed for carnivorous fish. It is important to ensure they receive adequate and varied feeding to maintain their health and vitality.

Complexity

Caring for Phractocephalus hemioliopterus can be challenging due to its large size and space and water requirements. They are predators and need a protein-rich diet. They require an aquarium large enough to grow and move comfortably. They are sensitive to water quality and may require frequent maintenance.

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To do an analysis more detailed about coexistence and behavior of Phractocephalus hemioliopterus (Red-tailed Catfish) use the Aquarium simulation tool, if you do this you can test different ways to combine the Red-tailed Catfish with other fishes giving the dimensions and space on you aquarium, on this way you can known the optimal configuration for keep the fishes that you want.

You can also find out the 13 species compatible with the Phractocephalus hemioliopterus (Red-tailed Catfish) can live together.

Note: The parameters of the water such as PH and temperature are also used to calculate the compatibility of the species.

Compatible species (13)

Compatible (2 Species)

Compatible without any restriction

Clown Pleco

Panaqolus maccus

Royal Pleco

Panaque nigrolineatus

Similar Sizes (1 Species)

They can coexist if they are the same size or very similar sizes, it does not work in all cases, there may be exceptions.

Alligator Gar

Atractosteus spatula

With Reservation (5 Species)

Compatible in some cases, it depends on the nature and personality of the fish.

Lemon Catfish

Hemiancistrus subviridis

Anentome Helena

Anentome helena

IndoPlanorbis Exustus

Planorbis planorbis

Horned Snail

Tyloperlamania sp

Las especies territoriales por lo general pueden convivir con especies protegidas con coraza, ya que no pueden hacerles daño por su dura piel, lo que si hay que tener en cuenta es tener un acuario con dimensiones favorables para que cada pez pueda delimitar un territorio, ya que la mayoría de peces acorazados son también peces de fondo y les gusta estar buscando lugares donde ocultarse.

Spotted Dora Catfish

Agamyxus pectinifrons

Compatible if space is enough (5 Species)

They can coexist together if the aquarium they share is large and spacious enough for both species to feel good, as some fish may attack others to feel that they have little space and try to eliminate the competition.