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Redtail Catfish

By Shirlie Sharpe, About.com

Redtail Catfish

Redtail Catfish

Scientific Name:

Phractocephalus hemioliopterus
Family: Pimelodidae
Origin: Brazil, Rio Negro, Venezuela
Adult Size: up to 24 inches (60 cm)
Social: Predatory, cannot be kept with smaller fish
Lifespan: 15 years
Tank Level: Bottom dweller
Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallon
Diet: Carnivore
Breeding: Not bred in captivity
Care: Difficult
pH: 5.8 - 6.8
Hardness: up to 10 dGH
Temperature: 68-79 F (20-26 C)
Shirlie Sharpe
Guide since 1998

Shirlie Sharpe
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