Blood Red Whiptail Catfish (Rineloricaria sp.)
The Blood Red Whiptail Catfish, Rineloricaria sp., is a peaceful and unusual loricariid catfish with a long slender body, flattened underside, sucker mouth and striking red to orange-red colouration. Also known as the Red Whiptail Catfish, Red Lizard Whiptail or L010A-type Whiptail, this delicate-looking catfish is best suited to mature, quiet community aquariums with soft sand, driftwood, caves and gentle tank mates. It is not an aggressive algae eater, but a calm bottom-dwelling grazer and scavenger that needs regular feeding and excellent water quality.
Key Features
- Peaceful and social behavior
- Long, slender body with red to orange-red coloration
- Flattened underside and sucker mouth for bottom feeding
- Best kept in mature, stable aquariums with soft substrates
- Requires gentle tank mates and regular feeding
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Rineloricaria sp. |
| Common Names | Blood Red Whiptail Catfish, Red Whiptail Catfish, Red Lizard Whiptail, L010A Whiptail, Red Loricaria |
| Size (adult) | Up to 5 cm (2 inches) |
| Water Temperature | 22–28°C (72–82°F) |
| Water pH | 6.0–7.0 |
| Water Hardness | Soft to moderately soft (2–8 dGH) |
| Compatibility | Peaceful community tanks with non-aggressive fish |
| Feeding | Detritus, algae, sinking pellets, and small live foods |
FAQ
What kind of tank conditions does the Blood Red Whiptail Catfish require?
This catfish thrives in mature, quiet community aquariums with soft sand, driftwood, caves, and gentle tank mates. It prefers water temperatures between 22–28°C, a pH of 6.0–7.0, and soft to moderately soft water.
Is the Blood Red Whiptail Catfish aggressive or suitable for community tanks?
No, it is a peaceful and calm catfish. It is best suited for community tanks with non-aggressive fish and does not compete aggressively for food or space.
What should I feed my Blood Red Whiptail Catfish?
It is a bottom-dwelling grazer and scavenger. Feed it detritus, algae, sinking pellets, and small live foods. Regular feeding is essential for its health and coloration.
Megan Duncan –
Added a Blood Red Whiptail to my 55-gallon tank last month. It’s very calm and blends well with my tetras and corydoras. The red color is vibrant and stands out. Needs soft sand and a quiet environment, which I already have. Feeds well on sinking pellets and algae wafers. Very satisfied with the addition.
Andrea Clark –
The fish arrived healthy and looks beautiful with its bright red body. I keep it in a planted tank with driftwood and soft sand. It stays near the bottom and doesn’t disturb other fish. A bit shy at first but now it’s active. Feeding twice a day helps maintain its color.
Liam Peters –
This catfish is a stunning addition to my aquarium. It’s peaceful and doesn’t chase or eat other fish. I noticed it’s more active at night. The tank needs stable water parameters and regular feeding. After a few weeks, it’s fully settled and looks vibrant.