Red Tail Shark – Epalzeorhynchos bicolor

Scientific Name: Epalzeorhynchos bicolor
Common Names: Red Tail Shark, Red-Tailed Black Shark

The Red Tail Shark is a striking freshwater fish recognized by its deep black body and brilliant red tail. Despite its common name, it is not a true shark—it belongs to the carp and minnow family.

Care Level: Intermediate
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Territorial
Adult Size: Approximately 5–6 inches
Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons recommended
Temperature: Approximately 72–80°F
pH: Approximately 6.5–7.5
Diet: Omnivore
Recommended Stocking: Generally one per aquarium

Provide a spacious aquarium with caves, driftwood, plants, and rockwork that create hiding places and break up lines of sight. Red Tail Sharks become increasingly territorial as they mature and should generally not be housed with other Red Tail Sharks, Rainbow Sharks, or similarly shaped territorial fish.

Feed a varied diet of quality sinking foods and algae-based foods supplemented with vegetables and occasional frozen or live foods.

Please Note: Temperament varies between individuals, and appropriate tankmate selection becomes increasingly important as the fish matures.

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