
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Epalzeorhynchos bicolor
A bottom-dwelling cyprinid, jet black with a scarlet tail. It grows increasingly territorial and is especially hard on fish of similar shape, so it is kept singly and its tank mates chosen with care.
Epalzeorhynchos bicolor comes from the Chao Phraya basin in Thailand. FishBase records a maximum of 13cm TL, pH 6.5-7.5, up to 15 dH and 22-26C, describing an omnivore of main rivers and floodplains that should be kept singly because adults are strongly territorial. Seriously Fish gives 125mm SL, 20-26C, pH 6.0-8.0, 2-15 dGH and a 120 x 45cm base of about 243 litres, and notes a potential age in excess of fifteen years. The jet black body and scarlet tail make it a striking fish. It is sometimes sold as an algae eater, but it does not graze as effectively as Crossocheilus species. Tens of thousands are exported from Thailand each year, now all captive bred, while wild populations have declined and the IUCN rates the species Critically Endangered. It is not listed by CITES.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Red-tailed Black Shark lives Over 15 years.
The Red-tailed Black Shark grows to Up to 13cm TL.
The ideal temperature for the Red-tailed Black Shark is 20〜26℃.
Origin
Thailand (Chao Phraya basin)
Lifespan
Over 15 years
Size
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Up to 13cm TL
Temperature
20〜26℃
Sinking dried foods, frozen foods and vegetable matter
Seriously Fish suggests a 120 x 45cm base of about 243 litres. Several caves and sight-breaking rock or driftwood ease territorial disputes. It disturbs the substrate, so plants attached to decor are easier to keep.
Seriously Fish gives 20-26C, pH 6.0-8.0 and 2-15 dGH, while FishBase records pH 6.5-7.5, up to 15 dH and 22-26C. It wants a mature, settled tank and reacts badly to sudden changes.
Not a general community fish. Juveniles hide, but territoriality grows with age and it attacks similarly shaped fish hard. Never house it with its own kind or congeners. Loaches of Chromobotia, Botia, Syncrossus and Yasuhikotakia are usually left alone.
An omnivore taking plant matter and small benthic animals. Use sinking dried food as the staple with frozen bloodworm, Artemia and a plant-based food. Do not buy it expecting an algae crew.
Traded fish are produced on Thai farms with hormone induction, and home breeding is almost never successful. Adults fight so fiercely that housing several together for breeding is impractical.
It can live beyond fifteen years, so plan for the long term, and do not judge compatibility from a docile juvenile because it harries tank mates once grown. The IUCN rates the wild population Critically Endangered. It is not listed by CITES.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Red-tailed Black Shark is 20〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Red-tailed Black Shark is Over 15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Red-tailed Black Shark typically reaches Up to 13cm TL as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Red-tailed Black Shark feeds on: Sinking dried foods, frozen foods and vegetable matter. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Red-tailed Black Shark varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026