Red Tailed Shark (Epalzeorhynchos bicolor)

Family: Cyprinidae

Red Tailed Shark — a Cyprinidae from South America and the Philippines. Reaches 9.8–14.3 cm; keep at 22–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 22–26 °C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH hardness: 5–12 dGH
Adult length: 9.8–14.3 cm
Minimum tank: 245 L
Water layer: Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins
Origin: South America and the Philippines

Species overview

Epalzeorhynchos bicolor is a Cyprinidae from South America and the Philippines. In the wild it prefers clear streams and rivers over gravel; in the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 9.8–14.3 cm of adult fish at 22–26 °C. Related profiles: Epalzeorhynchos frenatus.

Native biotope

Habitat: Clear streams and rivers over gravel
Flow: Moderate, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂: Appreciates well-oxygenated water

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate: Fine gravel and sand
Hardscape: Water-worn stones and driftwood
Plants: Hardy rooted plants along the margins

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling: Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more
Diet: Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with: Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism: Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method: Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Red Tailed Shark easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.

What temperature and water chemistry does Red Tailed Shark need?

Aim for 22–26 °C. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin; 22–26 °C recorded range.

How big does Red Tailed Shark get, and what tank size?

Full size is 9.8–14.3 cm. Minimum tank: 245 L, with open swimming space along its bottom-dwelling habits.

What does Red Tailed Shark eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Red Tailed Shark live with other fish?

Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Red Tailed Shark come from?

Comes from South America and the Philippines: clear streams and rivers over gravel. Expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Red Tailed Shark jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Red Tailed Shark breed?

Egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.