Redfin Flagtail Prochilodus

Introduction: The Red Fin Flagtail Prochilodus (Semaprochilodus taeniurus) is a robust and visually striking freshwater fish, known for its vibrant red fins and distinctive horizontal black stripes. This species is native to the fast-flowing rivers of South America, particularly the Amazon Basin. Appreciated by aquarists for its constant swimming and foraging behavior, the Red Fin Flagtail also serves as an excellent algae eater. Its active lifestyle and larger size make it best suited for spacious, well-established tanks.

Scientific Name: The Red Fin Flagtail Prochilodus is scientifically recognized as Semaprochilodus taeniurus. It is commonly known as the Red Fin Flagtail or simply Flagtail Prochilodus.

Water Quality and Temperature:

• Temperature: Keep the water temperature between 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C), matching the tropical conditions of its natural habitat.
• pH Level: Maintain a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5, which provides a slightly acidic to neutral environment.
• Hardness: Aim for a general hardness (GH) of 4 to 12 dGH, as this fish prefers soft to moderately hard water.
• Water Movement: Ensure moderate to strong water movement to mimic the flowing river systems of the Amazon Basin.

Feeding: The Red Fin Flagtail Prochilodus is an omnivorous grazer, primarily consuming algae and detritus in the wild. In an aquarium setting, provide a balanced diet that includes:

• Algae Wafers: These form a significant portion of their diet, providing the necessary plant matter they would naturally graze on.
• Vegetables: Blanched vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, and cucumber help fulfill their herbivorous needs.
• Pellets and Flakes: Use high-quality sinking pellets or flakes, especially those designed for omnivorous species.
• Live/Frozen Foods: Occasional supplements of protein-rich foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia can be offered to balance their diet.

Tank Mates: Red Fin Flagtail Prochilodus are generally peaceful fish that do well with other large, non-aggressive species. Ideal tank mates include larger South American cichlids like Geophagus, Silver Dollars, or Severums. Avoid smaller or slow-moving fish that could be disturbed by the constant movement and foraging behavior of the Prochilodus. Additionally, fast-swimming species and other robust tank mates help reduce any potential stress caused by the fish’s high activity level.

Substrates and Tank Decorations: A sandy or fine gravel substrate is ideal, as the Red Fin Flagtail enjoys foraging along the bottom for food. Include plenty of smooth rocks and driftwood to create natural hiding spots, and maintain open areas for free swimming. Mimic their fast-flowing natural environment with the use of water pumps or powerheads to generate strong water currents.

Suitable Plants: Hardy plants like Java Fern, Anubias, or Vallisneria are recommended, as the Red Fin Flagtail may disturb delicate plants due to its constant foraging. Floating plants can also be added to provide some cover and additional biofilm to graze on, without being uprooted.

Sexing: There are no easily distinguishable external features to differentiate between males and females in Red Fin Flagtail Prochilodus. They are not sexually dimorphic, and both sexes tend to exhibit similar size and coloration.

Breeding: Breeding Red Fin Flagtail Prochilodus in captivity is uncommon and challenging, as they require specific environmental triggers, such as seasonal flooding and large water volume changes, to initiate spawning. In the wild, they migrate to spawn in large schools. Recreating these conditions in an aquarium is nearly impossible, and there are very few reports of successful breeding in captivity.

Maximum Size and Longevity: Red Fin Flagtail Prochilodus can grow up to 12 to 14 inches (30 to 35 cm) in length. With proper care, they can live for 10 to 15 years in an aquarium, making them a long-term commitment for aquarists.

General Information: The Red Fin Flagtail Prochilodus is an active, hardy, and striking fish that adds vibrancy and energy to any large freshwater aquarium. Due to its size and constant swimming behavior, it requires a spacious tank with plenty of room to roam and graze. Its peaceful temperament and effective algae-eating capabilities make it a popular choice for experienced fish keepers with large community tanks.

A Fun Fact: In their native habitat, Red Fin Flagtail Prochilodus are known to undertake long migratory journeys during the rainy season, swimming upstream in large schools to spawn in flooded areas. This migration, known as potamodromy, is a critical part of their life cycle.