Red Tail Shark
The red tail shark is an active scavenger in the aquarium and is very easy to keep. These “sharks” are actually catfish and will eat anything they can fit in their mouths, which are fortunately small. Red tail sharks only grow to about four inches. The shark pictured is show quality; few red tail sharks get color that deep.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Epalzeorhynchos bicolor |
|---|---|
| Origin | Thailand (aquarium-bred; critically endangered in the wild) |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive, territorial (especially toward other sharks) |
| Adult Size | Up to 5–6 inches |
FAQ
What is the typical size of a red tail shark?
Red tail sharks grow to about four inches in length, with an adult size reaching up to 5–6 inches.
Are red tail sharks aggressive?
Red tail sharks are semi-aggressive and can become territorial, especially when kept with other sharks.
Where do red tail sharks originate from?
They originate from Thailand, though most available in the aquarium trade are bred in captivity due to being critically endangered in the wild.
Max Clark –
I bought this red tail shark for my 55-gallon tank. It’s active and colorful, and has been eating small bits of food and detritus. The color is vibrant, especially compared to others I’ve seen. Just make sure not to keep more than one, as they can get territorial.
Jane Mathis –
The fish looks great and stays active in the tank. I noticed it’s not very picky about food. It’s a bit shy at first but settles in after a week. I’m happy with the color and size.
Paul Piper –
This is a show-quality red tail shark. The red tail is deep and bright. It’s a good addition to a community tank, as long as there’s enough space and no other sharks.