Phantom Redtail Catfish - (Phractocephalus Hemioliopterus)

🐟 Phantom Redtail Catfish – (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus) – Freshwater Monster Fish for Sale

The Phantom Redtail Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus) is a large, powerful, and striking freshwater predator from South America, known for its bold colors and impressive size. A variant of the well-known Redtail Catfish, the “Phantom” form is prized for its unique, darker body tones and vivid red-orange tail, making it stand out in monster fish collections.

This species is fast-growing and can quickly reach massive proportions, requiring a very large aquarium or indoor pond. It is best suited for experienced aquarists with the space, filtration capacity, and knowledge to handle such a demanding fish.

🔎 Quick Facts – Phantom Redtail Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus)

• 📛 Common Name: Phantom Redtail Catfish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Phractocephalus hemioliopterus
• 🌍 Origin: Amazon, Orinoco, and Essequibo River Basins (South America)
• 🎨 Appearance: Darker “phantom” body coloration with a vivid red tail and white belly
• 📏 Max Size: 3–4 feet (90–120 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Rare variant; wild-caught and occasionally farmed

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• ⚠️ Predatory – will eat any fish or invertebrate small enough to fit in its mouth
• 🐟 Generally solitary but may be housed with other large, non-aggressive monster fish
• 🌊 Extremely active swimmer; requires open space
• 🧠 Can recognize its keeper and become hand-fed over time

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 1,000+ gallons or large indoor pond
• 🌿 Fine sand or smooth-bottom substrate to prevent injury
• 🪵 Provide large driftwood or rock structures for shade and resting
• 💡 Moderate lighting
• 🌊 Powerful filtration and frequent large water changes required

💧 Water Parameters – Phantom Redtail Catfish Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.0–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous Predator

• 🐟 Whole fish, shrimp, squid, mussels
• 🪱 Earthworms and other large live or frozen foods
• 🌾 Can be trained to eat high-quality carnivore pellets

📋 Phantom Redtail Catfish Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Phantom Redtail Catfish is a rare and visually stunning variant of a classic monster fish, combining the iconic red tail with a darker, more dramatic body—perfect for serious large predator enthusiasts.