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Product Details

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Size

12cm - 15cm

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Temperament

Semi Aggressive

Platinum Red Tail Catfish (12–15 cm) – a striking, large-bodied catfish with silvery-white scales and a vivid red tail. Ideal for spacious aquariums with experienced keepers.

The Platinum Red Tail Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus) is a spectacular freshwater fish native to the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Known for its striking platinum-white body contrasted by a vibrant red tail fin, this species is a stunning centerpiece for large aquarium setups.

At 12–15 cm, these juveniles are already impressive, but adults can grow to up to 1.2 meters (about 4 feet) in captivity, requiring very large tanks or ponds. Due to their size and active swimming behavior, Platinum Red Tail Catfish are best suited for experienced hobbyists with ample space and a commitment to long-term care.


Key Features

  • Size: Juveniles 12–15 cm; adults can exceed 100 cm

  • Temperament: Generally peaceful but territorial as they grow

  • Care Level: Advanced (large tank and strong filtration required)

  • Lifespan: 15+ years with proper care

  • Special Trait: Stunning platinum body with contrasting red tail fin


Care Guide for Platinum Red Tail Catfish

Tank Requirements

  • Minimum Tank Size: 1,000 liters (264 gallons) for juveniles; adults need much larger ponds or tanks

  • Aquascape: Open swimming space with sturdy decor and large hiding spots

  • Filtration: Heavy-duty filtration to manage high bioload

  • Lighting: Moderate lighting to accentuate colors

  • Lid Required: Secure lid necessary as they can jump or push tank covers


Water Parameters

  • Temperature: 24°C – 28°C (75°F – 82°F)

  • pH Level: 6.0 – 7.5

  • Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

  • Maintenance: Weekly 30–40% water changes to maintain pristine water quality


Feeding Habits

Platinum Red Tail Catfish are omnivorous with a preference for protein-rich foods.

  • Recommended Diet:

    • Sinking pellets designed for large catfish

    • Fresh or frozen shrimp, fish fillets, and worms

    • Occasional vegetables for fiber (e.g., peas, zucchini)

Feed daily or every other day, adjusting quantity as the fish grows.


Tank Mates

Due to their size, tank mates must be large and robust species capable of coexisting peacefully.

Compatible Tank Mates:

  • Large South American cichlids (Oscar, Severum)

  • Large catfish species (Pimelodids, Doradids)

  • Pacu and Silver Dollar species

Avoid small or aggressive fish that might provoke stress or be preyed upon.


Behavior & Personality

  • Behavior: Mostly peaceful but can be territorial as they mature

  • Activity: Active swimmers, often exploring the tank

  • Personality: Intelligent and responsive to feeding routines


Why Choose Platinum Red Tail Catfish?

  • Dramatic platinum body with vibrant red tail for visual impact

  • Large, majestic fish ideal for experienced aquarists

  • Long lifespan and engaging behavior


✅ Perfect for large, well-established aquariums or outdoor ponds
✅ A majestic and rare centerpiece fish for dedicated hobbyists

Platinum red tail cat 12-15cm

SGD 242.00

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Aquarium Fishes, Tanks & Supplies From FishList by DesmondLim Teck Whye
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