Red Tail Shark (Epalzeorhynchos bicolor)

One of a number of so-called freshwater “sharks” in the Cyprinid family (no actual relation to marine sharks), the black and red Red Tail Shark has been popular in the aquarium hobby for decades. Originating in well-oxygenated shallow streams in the Chao Phraya basin in Southeast Asia, this fish is a medium growing hardy omnivore and grazer that makes a colorful addition to a medium or large community aquarium. Although smaller fish do well in groups, they tend to become more solitary as they grow and can become territorial towards one another or other similar looking fish as adults. Ideal tankmates include medium peaceful cichlids, barbs, or larger rainbowfish.