Description
Phantom Red-Tailed Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus)
Overview
Overview
The Phantom Red-Tailed Catfish is a large, striking freshwater catfish known for its sleek silver body and vivid red tail. Renowned for its powerful swimming and predatory nature, it is a dramatic centerpiece species for very large aquariums or pond setups.
OriginAmazon and Orinoco Basins, South America
Feeding- Carnivorous: accepts live or frozen foods such as fish, shrimp, and worms
- Can adapt to high-quality carnivore pellets as it grows
- Only suitable with large, robust fish
- Avoid small or slow-moving species due to predatory behavior
- Predatory; may consume smaller tankmates
Advanced – requires very large tanks and expert care
Water Parameters- Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
- Requires extremely large aquariums (juveniles 500+ liters; adults need much larger space)
- Strong filtration, high water flow, and excellent water quality are essential
- Adds a visually stunning, powerful presence to any large aquarium or pond
A truly impressive and predatory catfish, ideal for expert aquarists seeking a striking centerpiece with extraordinary size and beauty.
DX courier delivery is £20 per livestock order.
Delivery is scheduled for your selected delivery date and typically arrives before 1pm.
There is no minimum or maximum order value.
Additional information:
- In-stock livestock orders will be processed and dispatched for delivery on the date selected on the cart/basket page.
- Available delivery days are Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
- If any stock issues affect your chosen delivery date, we will contact you as soon as possible by email or telephone.
- Shipping for dry goods is charged separately from livestock delivery. Dry goods are dispatched according to our standard delivery policy.
- All livestock remains covered by our 7-day guarantee.


