Redtail Shark - Epalzeorhynchos bicolor - Small

3Reviews
$5.99
SKU: 213660
Manufacturer: That Fish Place
MPN: F90 0022 0036

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Details

The Redtail Shark (Epalzeorhynchos bicolor) has a dark grey body with white-tipped dorsal and anal fins and a red tail. An albino variant is also common which has a pinkish-white body, red eyes and a red tail. This shark is very similar to the also-common Rainbow Shark (E. frenatus). The Rainbow Shark has a grey body and red fins while the Redtail Shark has a grey body and fins and only the tail is red. Mixing these two species or keeping more than one of either species is not recommended as they can become very territorial, especially in smaller aquariums.

Some of the most popular fish for the freshwater semi-aggressive community are the cyprinids known as sharks. These are not the cartilaginous carnivores you see in movies or on the Discovery Channel. These fish are found primarily in the waters of Southeast Asia and Thailand. There are several species that are often imported for use in the aquarium trade, and several species also referred to as sharks that are less common in the trade. Though from several different genera, these fish all have in common the pointed heads and large, curved dorsal fins that give them their misleading common names and are more closely related to carp, loaches or barbs than saltwater sharks.

Sharks make bold and interesting additions to freshwater semi-aggressive communities, as long as the tank is of adequate size and the conditions in the tank suit their needs. Though these fish lack teeth, some species can grow quite large and territoriality can make them troublesome as they mature. They are generally not suitable for tanks under 55 gallons (some not less than a 75 to 100 gallon tank). Sharks should only be housed with fish that can stand up to chasing and harassment from sharks, especially towards their own kind. Smaller fish may eventually be seen as food items as the fish grow. Suitable tank mates for most include fish like barbs, catfish, large tetras, and other fish of similar temperament.

If you are considering the addition of a shark to your community, there are several things to keep in mind. As far as the set-up goes (besides having an adequately sized aquarium) be sure that you provide plenty of cover like wood, plants or rock formations so these fish can hide and feel secure when they feel the need. A tightly fitting lid is also highly recommended as they tend to be terrific jumpers, especially if startled. Most common sharks prefer well-aerated, clean water with temps between 74 and 81 degrees (F) and a pH maintained between 6.5 and 7.5. Sharks do not tend to be finicky eaters, readily accepting flakes, pellets and frozen, freeze-dried or live treats like bloodworms, tubiflex, glass worms, plankton, brine shrimp or other meaty tidbits.

Specifications

Specifications
MPN
F90 0022 0036
Manufacturer
That Fish Place
Common NameRedtail Shark - Small
Scientific NameEpalzeorhynchos bicolor
OriginAsia
Max Size (in inches)4.75
Community SafeYes, with caution
pH Range6.5-7.5
DietOmnivore
Min Tank Size (in gallons)45
Temperature Range74-80
DifficultyEasy
Internal Id
20301

State Restrictions
Alaska
Armed Forces Americas
Armed Forces Europe
Armed Forces Pacific
California
Hawaii
Puerto Rico

Instructions

Ratings & Reviews

3 reviews

good fish

by

Never stops cleaning day and night I have three in my 20 gallon tank they keep it spotless. Mine are charcoal black with red tail great fish. Tail changes color to pink when stressed.

about the fish

by

get big can be very aggressive to smaller fish can tare others fins some times

Beautiful potential

by

I have owned many over the years, and have had similar results each time. In a 55G tank, they have averaged up to 8" in length, firm build with jet black color, deep red tail, beautiful deep black and white tipped fins. They are territorial, do not like other redtails in their area. Will even try to track them down just to hunt them. Will posture with other similar sized fish for dominance. Once they reach near 5-6", develop a taste for very small fish from time to time (neons, tetras, tiny barbs, etc). I have fed them flakes, shrimp pellets, and frozen brine shrimp, and the steady supply of tiny fish as necessary. They have even grown to recognize me outside the tank and have been known to hang out on my side of tank near my chair. I also maintain a neutral pH as well as a steady dosage of vitamins in the water to enhance color and build.