What size tank does a Red-Tail Catfish need?

A Red-Tail Catfish needs a minimum tank size of 300 gallons. A 500-gallon tank or larger is recommended for optimal health.

What fish can live with Red-Tail Catfish?

Compatible tank mates for Red-Tail Catfish include: . Always ensure adequate tank size and proper water parameters.

Red-Tail Catfish

Q: Is Red-Tail Catfish easy to care for?

Red-Tail Catfish has a advanced care level. Grows enormous and fast — most home aquariums are too small long-term. Needs a pond or custom tank. Produces heavy bioload. Not recommended unless you have the space.

Phractocephalus hemioliopterus

Also known as: RTC, Banana Catfish

💧 Freshwater ⚡ Semi-aggressive 🔴 Advanced 🥩 Carnivore

A massive catfish with a striking red tail fin that grows to 4 feet. One of the most recognized monster fish in the hobby.

Tank Size

300 gal

minimum (500+ preferred)

Temperature

72–79°F

22–26°C

pH Range

5.5–7.2

water acidity

Max Size

48"

121.9 cm

Lifespan

15–20 years

typical in captivity

Swim Level

Bottom

preferred zone

Care Notes

Grows enormous and fast — most home aquariums are too small long-term. Needs a pond or custom tank. Produces heavy bioload. Not recommended unless you have the space.

Feeding

Pellets, whole fish, shrimp, and other meaty foods. Will eat anything that fits in its mouth.

Compatible Tank Mates

None identified.

Use Caution With

Fire Eel 24" Giant Gourami 24" Silver Arowana 36" Red-Bellied Pacu 30"

Incompatible With

Neon Tetra 1.5" Cardinal Tetra 2" Rummy Nose Tetra 2" Ember Tetra 0.8" Black Skirt Tetra 2.5" Serpae Tetra 1.75" Congo Tetra 3.5" Glowlight Tetra 1.5" Harlequin Rasbora 2" Chili Rasbora 0.7" Celestial Pearl Danio 1" Zebra Danio 2"

Check Compatibility

Want to check if Red-Tail Catfish is compatible with a specific fish? Use our compatibility checker to build your complete tank.