The Melanistic Black Panda Redtail Catfish is a striking color variant of the iconic Redtail Catfish, known for its deep black body accented by pale to white “panda-like” markings. Native to the Amazon and its tributaries, this impressive species can grow to massive sizes and requires specialized care, making it suitable only for very large aquariums or ponds.
| 🔖 Scientific Name | Phractocephalus hemioliopterus |
|---|---|
| 🐠 Common Name | Melanistic Black Panda Redtail Catfish |
| 🌎 Origin | Amazon, Orinoco, and Essequibo River Basins |
| 📏 Size | Up to 4.5 feet (137 cm) |
| 🌡️ Temperature | 72–82°F (22–28°C) |
| 💧 pH Range | 6.0–7.5 |
| 🐟 Temperament | Predatory |
| 🏠 Tank Size | 1,000+ gallons / large pond |
| 🍽️ Diet | Carnivore |
| 🎯 Experience Level | Expert / Advanced |
💡 A stunning and rare morph of the Redtail Catfish, the Melanistic Black Panda variety offers an unforgettable visual presence—but demands massive space and serious dedication.










