Common Name: Red Flagtail Prochilodus
Scientific Name: Semaprochilodus taeniurus
Other Names: Flagtail Prochilodus
The Red Flagtail Prochilodus is a wild-caught grazing characin from South America, and this XL fish is a particularly impressive specimen. Semaprochilodus taeniurus is a silvery, deep-bodied characin with a boldly striped tail, colorful fins and fleshy, sucker-like lips used to graze on surfaces. It is an active, interesting fish that adds movement and character to the aquarium. This is a WYSIWYG listing: you will receive the exact fish in the photograph.
Habitat and Distribution:
It is native to the Amazon basin in Brazil, Colombia and Peru, where it lives in rivers and floodplain lakes and makes seasonal migrations in large schools. The water in these habitats is typically warm, soft and slightly acidic, and submerged wood and vegetation provide cover.
Size and Lifespan:
It commonly reaches 12 inches (30 cm) or more, and exceptional specimens like this XL fish can exceed 16 inches (40 cm). Lifespan in captivity is not well documented for this species, but with good care it can be expected to live for many years.
Diet and Behavior:
Flagtail prochilodus are herbivores and detritivores that graze algae, biofilm and organic material in the wild. In the aquarium, offer algae wafers, spirulina, blanched vegetables and sinking pellets. They are peaceful, active fish that spend much of the day grazing, though they may nibble soft plants. Feed a varied diet and remove uneaten food promptly to protect water quality.
Breeding and Reproduction:
In the wild, flagtail prochilodus migrate in large schools to spawn in open water during the flood season. They are not bred in home aquariums.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A tank of at least 125 gallons is recommended, and a fish of this size will appreciate more room. Provide a long tank with open swimming space, driftwood and rocks to graze on, strong filtration and a secure lid, as they are strong jumpers. The water temperature should be kept between 72-82°F (22-28°C), with a pH of 5.5-7.5 and soft to moderately hard water. Regular partial water changes are essential to maintain water quality, and new arrivals should be acclimated slowly.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Good tank mates include peaceful to semi-aggressive fish of similar size, such as silver dollars, larger tetras, eartheaters, plecos and peaceful larger cichlids. They can be kept singly or in a group in a large enough tank. As with any aquarium, introduce new fish carefully and watch for signs of stress or aggression.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. Flagtail prochilodus are hardy and adaptable, but their size and activity level require a large tank. It is well suited to aquarists with some experience who can maintain stable water conditions.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
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pH: 5.5-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 2-12 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 2-8 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- Flagtail prochilodus spend much of their time grazing algae and biofilm from rocks, wood and glass.
- They are strong jumpers, so a secure lid is recommended.
- Fun fact: Prochilodontid fishes are important food fish in South America, where their seasonal spawning migrations draw huge schools upriver.
The Red Flagtail Prochilodus is a peaceful, impressive grazer for large community aquariums. With the right setup and care, it will be a rewarding addition for many years.
