The Redtail Shark, also known as the Redtail Black Shark is great for the semi-aggressive community aquarium, as long as they are the sole sharks and the other tankmates are of similar size. The Redtail Shark is a beautiful fish with a jet black body and a bright red tail. The dorsal fin is marked with a white tip.
It requires a large aquarium with driftwood, rocks, and spots of dense vegetation. This shark may set up territories around the aquarium. The Redtail Shark will become very aggressive towards its own species when mature.
Unfortunately, the breeding habits of the Redtail Shark have not been documented.
An omnivore, the Redtail Shark is not a particularly finicky eater. Flake food, freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, as well as vegetable-based foods should be fed.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1/4" to 1-1/2"
Testimonial By:
Testimonial:
Janet Syracuse, NY
I owned a Redtail shark that was already full sized when I bought it. It is a beautiful shark. Keep in mind the major rule of thumb: if a fish can fit in its mouth it will most probably become dinner (and you will be surprised just how big the sharks mouth can get when it's hungry). If you follow this rule your Redtail shark will be a wonderful focal point in your tank.
I have a Redtail in my 20 gallon tank. It works well with the Gouramis and Angelfish. It likes to swim around and hide under the driftwood and plants that I have in the tank. A good starter fish as it was one of mine.
My redtail shark is the beauty of my 55 gal tank. He looks and behaves the way a real shark would - very graceful and his black body is so dark and sleek. I can't say enough good things about this specimen.
I've enjoyed this beautiful fish in my 37-gallon tank for the past year or so. A quick word to the wise - when selecting companion fish to have in the same tank, I've noticed the Redtail Shark does NOT like fancy long-finned Barbs!
I have had four Redtail Sharks and I strongly recommend them for the beginner. They require room to swim and are actually playful with other fish in my tank. The Redtail is easy to care for and makes a great "tenant" in my community tank!
I own two Redtail sharks and they are the best fish I have ever owned! They keep all the fish in your tank moving and will please any viewer. My sharks are the "controllers" of the tank. They are easy to feed and require minimal effort. Their favorite foods are flaked food, bloodworms, and shrimp pellets. I strongly recommend this fish to a novice!
I like huge fish to keep in a aquarium but even though this fish does not get that big it is still my favorite fish. They are aggressive enough so that my big fish don't bother him but peaceful enough for a community tank. They also have a very cool color with a bright red tail.