Redtail Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus) is a advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 1000 gallons and 72-82°F. Sold as a cute juvenile, the redtail catfish grows into a heavy, powerful fish about three to four feet long. It needs a tank measured in the high hundreds or thousands of gallons, which is why it is usually a fish for a public aquarium or a pond-sized setup.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Phractocephalus hemioliopterus |
|---|---|
| Family | Pimelodidae |
| Origin | Amazon and Orinoco basins, South America |
| Adult size | 36-48+ in |
| Minimum tank | 1000 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-82°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Predatory, will eat anything that fits |
| Social behavior | Solitary |
| Swim level | Bottom to mid |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore: fish, shrimp, squid, large sinking pellets |
| Typical lifespan | 15-20+ years |
Quick tips
- Plan for a tank of 1,000 gallons or more before buying.
- Do not keep with any fish small enough to swallow.
- Use heavy equipment covers and strong filtration.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi