Redtail Catfish
Phractocephalus hemioliopterus
The adult redtail catfish inhabits large rivers, flooded forests, and deep channels of the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Usually active around dusk and at night, it uses sensitive barbels to locate fish, crustaceans, insects, and fallen fruit in murky water. This powerful, mostly solitary predator can swallow surprisingly large prey. Its dark body, pale underside, and vivid red-orange tail make it one of South America's most recognizable giant catfish.
- Type
- Water / Brute
- Conservation status
- LC
Growth chain
- ?
- ?
- Redtail Catfish