The Red Tail Shark (Epalzeorhynchos bicolor) is an attractive, striking freshwater fish popular in the aquarium hobby for its sleek, black body with a bright red tail. Native to Thailand, the species is critically endangered in the wild, though it remains widely available in the aquarium trade.

Lifespan: Typically 5 to 8 years with proper care.

Appearance: The Red Tail Shark has a slender, torpedo-shaped body with a distinctive black coloration on the body and a bright red tail fin. Their dorsal fin is prominent, resembling a classic “shark-like” shape.

Size: Red Tail Sharks typically grow to 4-6 inches in length.

Care: These fish are hardy but require specific care to thrive:

• Tank Size: At least 55 gallons for one Red Tail Shark. Larger tanks are necessary for multiple individuals to minimize aggression.
• Water Parameters: They are adaptable but thrive in temperatures of 72-79°F, pH of 6.5-7.5, and moderate water hardness (10-15 KH). Consistent water testing is crucial.
• Tank Setup: Use moderate-sized gravel or pebbles as the substrate, along with plants like hornwort or water wisteria, and pieces of driftwood to mimic their natural habitat and reduce territorial aggression.

Diet: Red Tail Sharks are omnivores and accept a wide range of foods. Primary foods include high-quality flakes or pellets, supplemented with brine shrimp, bloodworms, and vegetables like zucchini and cucumber. Avoid overfeeding to prevent water contamination.

Behavior and Temperament: These fish are very active and can be territorial, particularly when they feel cramped or threatened. Providing ample swimming space and appropriate tank mates helps reduce aggression. They should not be housed with other bottom-dwelling or overly curious species, like Rainbow Sharks, as these can trigger fights.

Tank Mates: Compatible species include peaceful, upper-water swimmers like Neon Tetras, Bala Sharks, and Angelfish. Avoid keeping multiple Red Tail Sharks together unless the tank is large enough (over 100 gallons).

Breeding: Red Tail Sharks are challenging to breed in captivity, and successful breeding reports are rare. It’s best to focus on maintaining a healthy, stress-free environment rather than attempting to breed them.

Health: While they don’t have specific diseases, they are prone to common freshwater fish ailments like Ich and fin rot. Regular water changes and monitoring for signs of illness help prevent issues.

In conclusion, Red Tail Sharks are visually stunning and relatively easy to care for when housed in a suitable environment with the right tank mates. They bring activity and beauty to an aquarium but require a bit of extra space and attention to reduce territorial aggression. With proper care, they can be a rewarding species to keep in a community tank.