Redtail Shark
(Epalzeorhynchos bicolor)
Please Note: Due to variations within species, your item may not look identical to the image provided. Approximate size range may also vary between individual specimen.
Please Note: Due to variations within species, your item may not look identical to the image provided. Approximate size range may also vary between individual specimen.
Redtail Shark
(Epalzeorhynchos bicolor)
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Quick Stats
Care Level
Moderate
Temperament
Semi-aggressive
Color Form
Black, Red
Diet
Omnivore
Water Conditions
72-79° F, KH 10-15, pH 6.5-7.5
Max. Size
4"
Family
Cyprinidae
Minimum Tank Size
50 gallons
What do these Quick Stats mean? Click here for more information
Care Level
Moderate
Temperament
Semi-aggressive
Color Form
Black, Red
Diet
Omnivore
Water Conditions
72-79° F, KH 10-15, pH 6.5-7.5
Max. Size
4"
Family
Cyprinidae
Minimum Tank Size
50 gallons
What do these Quick Stats mean? Click here for more information
Overview
The Redtail Shark, also known as the Redtail Black Shark is great for the semi-aggressive community aquarium, as long as they are the sole sharks and the other tankmates are of similar size. The Redtail Shark is a beautiful fish with a jet black body and a bright red tail. The dorsal fin is marked with a white tip.
It requires a large aquarium with driftwood, rocks, and spots of dense vegetation. This shark may set up territories around the aquarium. The Redtail Shark will become very aggressive towards its own species when mature.
Unfortunately, the breeding habits of the Redtail Shark have not been documented.
An omnivore, the Redtail Shark is not a particularly finicky eater. Flake food, freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, as well as vegetable-based foods should be fed.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1/2" to 2"
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Customer Testimonials
Janet
Syracuse , NY
I owned a Redtail shark that was already full sized when I bought it. It is a beautiful shark. Keep in mind the major rule of thumb: if a fish can fit in its mouth it will most probably become dinner (and you will be surprised just how big the sharks mouth can get when it's hungry). If you follow this rule your Redtail shark will be a wonderful focal point in your tank.
Justin C
Asheville , NC
I have a Redtail in my 20 gallon tank. It works well with the Gouramis and Angelfish. It likes to swim around and hide under the driftwood and plants that I have in the tank. A good starter fish as it was one of mine.
Debbie L
Grand Bay , AL
My redtail shark is the beauty of my 55 gal tank. He looks and behaves the way a real shark would - very graceful and his black body is so dark and sleek. I can't say enough good things about this specimen.
Kimber R
Redding , CA
I've enjoyed this beautiful fish in my 37-gallon tank for the past year or so. A quick word to the wise - when selecting companion fish to have in the same tank, I've noticed the Redtail Shark does NOT like fancy long-finned Barbs!
Dave S
Norwich , CT
I have had four Redtail Sharks and I strongly recommend them for the beginner. They require room to swim and are actually playful with other fish in my tank. The Redtail is easy to care for and makes a great "tenant" in my community tank!
Dave S
Norwich , CT
I own two Redtail sharks and they are the best fish I have ever owned! They keep all the fish in your tank moving and will please any viewer. My sharks are the "controllers" of the tank. They are easy to feed and require minimal effort. Their favorite foods are flaked food, bloodworms, and shrimp pellets. I strongly recommend this fish to a novice!
Alex K
Oak Ridge , NJ
I like huge fish to keep in a aquarium but even though this fish does not get that big it is still my favorite fish. They are aggressive enough so that my big fish don't bother him but peaceful enough for a community tank. They also have a very cool color with a bright red tail.
Janet Windsor
Windsor , MI
I have had one of these guys for over a year, started very small and now is full grown. He is a beautiful dark black and vibrant red (they go pale when stressed). He will chase the other tank mates, especially the cory cat but has yet to harm any.He has been with angels, gouramis, various tetras and platys with no problem and has outlived them all. He is great, I only wish you could have more then one.
Chad Johnson
Raleigh , NC
I bought a Redtail shark from LiveAquaria in 2012. The shark is currently about 6 years old and is great to watch. The stated 4" max size is very conservative however, as mine in its 90 gallon tank has grown to 8+".
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