Red Tailed Black Shark

🔥 Red Tail Black Shark (Epalzeorhynchos bicolor)
Add bold contrast and striking personality to your aquarium with the iconic Red Tail Black Shark. Epalzeorhynchos bicolor Famous for its velvety jet-black body and vivid bright red tail, this energetic freshwater species is one of the most recognisable aquarium fish in the hobby. Active, territorial, and full of character, Red Tail Black Sharks make an eye-catching centrepiece for larger community aquariums.

Despite their shark-like appearance, they are actually members of the carp family, prized for their sleek body shape and confident swimming behaviour.

🌿 Why Choose Red Tail Black Shark?
🎨 Intense black body contrasted with brilliant red tail
🐠 Highly active and engaging aquarium fish
🌿 Excellent centrepiece species for larger aquariums
⭐ Strong personality with striking territorial behaviour
🪨 Constantly patrols caves, driftwood, and rockwork

In a spacious, well-structured aquarium, Red Tail Black Sharks actively patrol the lower and middle areas of the tank, adding movement and dramatic contrast.

📏 Care Requirements
🧬 Scientific Name: Epalzeorhynchos bicolor
📛 Common Name: Red Tail Black Shark
🏠 Tank Size: 200L+ recommended
📏 Adult Size: ~15 cm
🌡️ Temperature: 22–28°C
⚗️ pH Range: 6.5–7.5
🧘 Temperament: Semi-aggressive / territorial
🍽️ Diet: Omnivore – pellets, algae wafers, vegetables, frozen foods
👥 Group Size: Best kept singly

Red Tail Black Sharks thrive in larger aquariums with caves, driftwood, plants, and defined territories, alongside strong filtration and open swimming areas.

🐠 Compatibility
Suitable for semi-aggressive community aquariums with barbs, rainbowfish, gouramis, larger tetras, and robust community species. Avoid keeping with similar-shaped fish, bottom dwellers, or additional sharks unless the aquarium is exceptionally large.

⚠️ Important Notes
This species becomes increasingly territorial with age and may chase weaker tank mates, especially around caves or hiding places. Plenty of décor and visual barriers help minimise aggression.

A fantastic choice for UK aquarists seeking a bold, high-contrast showcase fish with strong personality and constant activity.