Asian Redtail Catfish

A warning first: the Asian redtail catfish is not closely related to South America's redtail catfish, but it creates a similar problem: it is sold in stores as a 10 cm juvenile and grows beyond 1 meter as an adult. It is a powerful predator living in the large channels of the Mekong and Chao Phraya rivers. It is recognized by its gray body, pale belly and bright red tail. It cannot be kept in a home aquarium; never release it into the wild.

• At least 5000 liters for an adult; only the scale of a custom pond or public aquarium.
• Minimal and very sturdy decor; heaters and equipment must be protected.
• Very strong filtration, a sump and frequent, large water changes.
• A heavy, sturdy lid.

Carnivorous and greedy. Offer fish fillet, shrimp, mussels and large carnivore granules; a few meals a week is enough for adults. Overfeeding leads to obesity.

Aggressive and territorial. It swallows any fish that fits in its mouth and may also attack fish close to its own size. It is intolerant of its own kind and of other large catfish.

Good companions: only in giant systems, fish as large and sturdy as itself.

Avoid: normal home aquariums; all small and medium-sized fish, shrimp, snails.