Red Flagtail Prochilodus - (Semaprochilodus insignis)

🐟 Red Flagtail Prochilodus – (Semaprochilodus insignis) – Active South American Schooling Fish for Sale

The Red Flagtail Prochilodus (Semaprochilodus insignis) is a large, highly active freshwater fish native to the Amazon Basin. It is instantly recognizable by its silver-scaled body with horizontal black striping and a brilliant red tail edged in black, giving it the “flag tail” name.

These fish are strong swimmers and are best kept in groups, as they are naturally schooling species in the wild. They require large aquariums with plenty of open swimming space and excellent water quality. While peaceful toward most tankmates, their constant movement and large size mean they are best suited for big community setups with other robust fish.

🔎 Quick Facts – Red Flagtail Prochilodus (Semaprochilodus insignis)

• 📛 Common Names: Red Flagtail Prochilodus, Flag-tailed Characin
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Semaprochilodus insignis
• 🌍 Origin: Amazon Basin – Brazil, Peru, Colombia
• 🎨 Appearance: Silver body with black horizontal lines and a bright red caudal fin edged in black
• 📏 Max Size: 12–15 inches (30–38 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Occasionally available; usually wild-caught

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Peaceful schooling fish, best kept in groups of 5+
• 🐟 Highly active swimmers—require a long tank
• 🧠 Constant grazers that sift through substrate for food
• ⚠️ May nip at soft-leaved plants

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 180+ gallons for a small group
• 🌿 Large open swimming areas with minimal obstructions
• 🪵 Smooth rocks and driftwood for grazing areas
• 💡 Moderate lighting
• 🌊 Strong filtration and high oxygen levels

💧 Water Parameters – Red Flagtail Prochilodus Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.0–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous (Algae & Biofilm Grazers)

• 🌾 Spirulina-based flakes and pellets
• 🥬 Blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini, lettuce)
• 🦐 Occasional frozen mysis or brine shrimp
• 🪵 Will graze on algae and biofilm naturally in the tank

📋 Red Flagtail Prochilodus Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Red Flagtail Prochilodus is a stunning, fast-moving schooling fish with a bright red flag-like tail—ideal for experienced aquarists with large aquariums who want a lively, eye-catching group display.