PisciDex Species Profile
Red Tail Shark
Striking black cyprinid with a red tail, territorial as it matures and best kept as the only sharklike bottom fish.
Epalzeorhynchos bicolor
Cyprinidae | Southeast Asia | Thailand, Chao Phraya basin
Core Requirements
Tank Size
55 gallons minimum
Adult Size
6 inches
Group Size
Solo
Bioload
3/10
Water Parameters
Temperature
72-79 F
pH
6.5-7.5
Plant Safe
Yes
Invert Safe
No
Data Confidence
medium
Temperature note: Recommended and tolerated temperature ranges currently match the primary care profile.
Care Warnings
- Territorial bottom fish; avoid similar shark-shaped tankmates in small tanks.
Behavior & Husbandry
Temperament
Semi-Aggressive
Aggression
6/10
Diet
Omnivore
Difficulty
Intermediate
Lifespan
6 years
Breeding
Advanced
Schooling
No
Compatibility Tags
Semi AggressiveSolitaryTerritorialBottom DwellerPlant SafeRockwork Preferred
Similar Species
Species Compatibility
Database-driven compatibility notes for planning community aquariums.