Tank setup
A minimum 200L aquarium suits Red Tail Black Shark. Match décor to natural behaviour — plants, rockwork, or open swimming room as needed.
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What to know before you buy.
The Red Tail Black Shark is an iconic freshwater fish instantly recognisable by its jet-black velvet body contrasted with a vivid red tail fin. Despite its common name, it is not a true shark but a member of the carp family, native to the rivers of Thailand. It is semi-aggressive and highly territorial, especially toward its own species and similarly shaped fish. It requires a well-planted aquarium with plenty of caves and hiding spots to establish territory. Best kept as a single specimen in a community of robust, dissimilar fish.
Key traits
Select a tank to see how this species fits.
Everything you need to keep Red Tail Black Shark healthy in a South African setup.
A minimum 200L aquarium suits Red Tail Black Shark. Match décor to natural behaviour — plants, rockwork, or open swimming room as needed.
Keep pH 6–7.5 and 22–27°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers — acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Red Tail Black Shark is omnivore. Feed a varied diet appropriate for freshwater fish — quality flakes, pellets, or frozen foods sized to the mouth.
Red Tail Black Shark is generally semi-aggressive. Observe during feeding and at lights-out for true temperament.
Pair with similarly sized semi-aggressive tankmates in freshwater fish. Avoid fin-nippers or species that outgrow this fish.
Breeding notes for Red Tail Black Shark vary by line and water chemistry — ask your local shop about proven pairs in SA.
From hobbyists across SA.
Price trends and buyer demand — data only FishHub tracks.
SA price range this month: R40–350 · Average: R130
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Species that typically work alongside Red Tail Black Shark in a similar setup.
Bristlenose Pleco
Ancistrus sp.
Otocinclus
Otocinclus vittatus
Corydoras Bronze
Corydoras aeneus
Glass Catfish
Kryptopterus vitreolus
Corydoras Sterbai
Corydoras sterbai
Kuhli Loach
Pangio kuhlii
Hillstream Loach
Sewellia lineolata
Weather Loach
Misgurnus anguillicaudatus