Introduction

The Red-tail Barracuda (Acestrorhynchus falcatus) is a striking freshwater fish known for its elongated, torpedo-shaped body and distinctive red caudal fin. Native to South America, this species has captivated aquarists with its predatory nature and dynamic presence. While its care requires attention to specific needs, the Red-tail Barracuda offers a rewarding experience for those prepared to meet its requirements.

What makes the Red-tail Barracuda appealing to aquarists?

Its unique appearance and active behavior add excitement to large freshwater aquariums.

Is the Red-tail Barracuda suitable for beginner fishkeepers?

Due to its size and dietary needs, it's better suited for aquarists with some experience.

Care and Environment

Caring for the Red-tail Barracuda involves providing a spacious tank, maintaining specific water parameters, and offering a suitable diet.

What is the minimum tank size for a Red-tail Barracuda?

A minimum of 208 liters (55 gallons) is recommended to accommodate their active swimming behavior.

What are the ideal water parameters for this species?

Maintain a temperature between 22–28°C, pH of 6.0–7.5, and hardness of 18–215 ppm.

What should be included in the tank setup?

Provide open swimming spaces with minimal decor, using a sandy substrate and some driftwood or plants along the tank's perimeter.

Filtration should be robust to handle the waste produced by this predatory fish, with a flow rate of 4–5 times the tank volume per hour. Lighting can be moderate, tailored to any live plants present. Feeding primarily involves live fish, but they can be trained to accept frozen or freeze-dried alternatives. Avoid feeding mammalian or avian meats, as these can cause health issues. Regular water changes of 30–50% weekly are essential to maintain water quality.

Origin and Habitat

The Red-tail Barracuda is native to the Amazon and Orinoco River basins in South America. It inhabits freshwater environments such as rivers, streams, and lakes with slow to moderate flow. These habitats are characterized by warm temperatures, slightly acidic to neutral pH, and moderate hardness. The presence of vegetation and ample prey availability are crucial for their survival.

Where can Red-tail Barracudas be found in the wild?

They are commonly found in the Amazon and Orinoco River basins.

What type of water bodies do they inhabit?

They prefer rivers, streams, and lakes with slow to moderate flow.

Temperament and Compatibility

Red-tail Barracudas are predatory but can coexist with similarly sized or larger, non-aggressive fish. Juveniles exhibit schooling behavior, while adults may become more solitary. It's advisable to keep them in groups of four or more to reduce stress and aggression. Avoid housing them with smaller fish that can be seen as prey.

Are Red-tail Barracudas aggressive?

They are predatory but can be relatively peaceful with tank mates too large to be considered prey.

What are suitable tank mates for this species?

Medium-sized, non-aggressive fish like Geophagus species or larger characins are appropriate.

Interesting Facts

The Red-tail Barracuda is known for its impressive speed and agility, making it a formidable predator in its natural habitat. In the aquarium trade, they are sometimes referred to as "Freshwater Barracudas" due to their resemblance to their marine counterparts. Breeding in captivity is rare, and there are no well-documented cases of successful reproduction in home aquariums.

Why are they called "Freshwater Barracudas"?

Due to their physical resemblance and predatory behavior similar to marine barracudas.

Is breeding Red-tail Barracudas in captivity common?

No, successful breeding in home aquariums is rare and not well-documented.

Sources

All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources:

• Seriously Fish
• Animal World
• Tropical Fish Guides