Our Guide To Keeping Red-tailed Black Shark Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Epalzeorhynchos bicolor
   • Common name: Red-tailed Black Shark
   • Family: Cyprinidae
   • Origin: Thailand
   • Adult length: 15 cm
   • Lifespan: 5 to 8 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Red-tailed Black Sharks need a tank with plenty of hiding spots and caves. A tank of at least 200L is recommended.
   • Provide rocks, driftwood, and artificial caves to create hiding spots and territories.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Red-tailed Black Sharks prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
   • Keep the water temperature between 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A strong filtration system is recommended to maintain water quality, but ensure the flow is not too strong to avoid stressing the fish.

5. Diet:

   • Red-tailed Black Sharks are omnivores and need a balanced diet. Offer them high-quality pellets or flakes supplemented with vegetables like zucchini and cucumber.
   • Occasionally provide live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp to mimic their natural diet and enhance their coloration.

6. Tank mates:

   • Red-tailed Black Sharks can be territorial, so choose tank mates carefully. Avoid keeping them with other bottom-dwelling species or those with similar body shapes and colors.
   • Compatible tank mates include larger, fast-swimming fish that occupy different areas of the tank, such as larger tetras, barbs, and rainbowfish.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Red-tailed Black Sharks can be territorial and may exhibit aggression towards similar-looking species or those that invade their space.
   • Provide plenty of hiding spots and territories to reduce aggression, and monitor their behavior when introducing new tank mates.