Pet Breed Guide NZ
Red-tailed Black Shark
The Red-tailed Black Shark (Epalzeorhynchos bicolor) is a striking freshwater fish, instantly recognisable by its sleek, dark body and vibrant red-orange tail fin. Originating from Thailand, these small, active fish typically grow to about 15cm and have a lifespan of 5-8 years in a well-maintained aquarium. They are known for their distinctive appearance and can add a dynamic element to a tropical tank. While generally peaceful with other species, they can be territorial towards similar-looking fish or their own kind without adequate space. In New Zealand, the Red-tailed Black Shark is a legal pet, but prospective Kiwi owners should always confirm current MPI guidelines and local council regulations before acquiring one.
Photo Gallery
NZ Ownership Snapshot
NZ Status Pending- Noise Level
- quiet
- Social Needs
- groups
- Water Type
- freshwater
- Tank Size
- 40L minimum
- Diet Type
- Prepared aquarium food, frozen foods, and species-appropriate live or vegetable foods
- UVB Required
- No
NZ legal status pending official verification from PetMall's government-source facts library. Do not claim this animal is legal to buy, import, breed, sell, or keep until verified.
Breed Snapshot
- Size
- small
- Lifespan
- 5-8 years
- Origin
- Thailand
- Care Focus
- Best researched for compatible tank mates, grouping, and stable water conditions.
- NZ Price
- NZD $25 - $60 (for a juvenile to sub-adult fish)
- Annual Vet Cost
- Annual vet/care costs for a Red-tailed Black Shark are typically low, primarily revolving around quality food, water conditioners, and occasional tank equipment replacement. Direct veterinary costs are rare unless a specific illness arises. However, access to exotic fish veterinarians in New Zealand is extremely limited, and specialist aquatic vets are scarce. Owners should budget for around NZD $50 - $100 annually for general supplies. If a vet visit were required, consultation fees could range from NZD $80 - $150, plus any treatment costs, but finding a vet with expertise in fish health might be challenging.
Personality Scores
NZ Lifestyle Fit
Red-tailed Black Sharks are well-suited for a variety of New Zealand homes, provided they can accommodate a sufficiently sized freshwater aquarium. They are adaptable to typical indoor temperatures, making them suitable for homes across both the North and South Islands, from Auckland's humidity to the cooler climes of Otago, as long as the tank is heated and stable. They thrive in a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots, mimicking their natural riverine habitats. There are no specific regional restrictions on keeping Red-tailed Black Sharks within New Zealand, but owners must always adhere to general MPI regulations for aquatic species. Legally sourcing these fish is generally straightforward through reputable pet stores and specialist aquarium retailers throughout the country. Always ensure your supplier is legitimate and provides healthy specimens. They are not suitable for outdoor ponds in NZ due to temperature requirements and potential environmental risks.
NZ legal status pending official verification from PetMall's government-source facts library. Do not claim this animal is legal to buy, import, breed, sell, or keep until verified.
About This fish
The Red-tailed Black Shark, scientifically known as *Epalzeorhynchos bicolor*, is a captivating freshwater fish native to the rivers and streams of Thailand. Despite its common name, it's not a true shark but rather a member of the Cyprinidae family, related to carp and minnows. These fish are highly prized in the aquarium hobby for their dramatic appearance: a velvety black body contrasted sharply with a brilliant red or orange tail fin. They are relatively small, reaching an adult size of approximately 12-15 centimetres (5-6 inches), and can live for 5-8 years, sometimes longer, with proper care. Red-tailed Black Sharks are active and intelligent, often seen exploring their environment, making them an engaging addition to a suitable home aquarium.
What They Look Like
As their name suggests, the most defining feature of the Red-tailed Black Shark is its striking colouration. The body is a deep, iridescent black, often appearing almost velvety in texture. This dark canvas is dramatically offset by a vivid, fiery red or orange caudal (tail) fin, which is typically the only coloured part of the fish. They possess a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body, characteristic of bottom-dwelling and active swimmers. Their mouths are downturned, equipped with two pairs of barbels, indicating their preference for foraging along the substrate. Their fins, apart from the tail, are generally black or translucent, blending seamlessly with their body. Juveniles exhibit the same colouration, though it may become more intense as they mature.
Personality & Behaviour
Red-tailed Black Sharks are known for their active and somewhat territorial nature. While generally peaceful towards fish of different shapes and colours, they can display aggression towards their own species or other fish with similar body shapes and fin colours, such as Rainbow Sharks or other Labeos. This territoriality often manifests as chasing or fin-nipping. For this reason, they are often best kept singly in a community tank. However, in very large aquariums (300L+), a group of 5 or more can sometimes be kept successfully, as the aggression is diffused among many individuals. They are bottom-dwellers and enjoy exploring caves, driftwood, and dense plant cover, which provide them with security and territories to claim. They are curious and can be observed sifting through substrate for food or patrolling their chosen areas.
Life in New Zealand
In New Zealand, the Red-tailed Black Shark is a legal fish to keep as a pet. However, as with all exotic species, prospective owners in Aotearoa should always consult the most current guidance from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and their local council regarding any specific regulations or requirements. Sourcing these fish legally in New Zealand typically involves reputable pet stores or specialist aquarium suppliers. It's crucial to ensure that any fish purchased are healthy and from a legal, ethical source to prevent the spread of diseases and support responsible pet ownership. Given their specific needs, understanding their care requirements is paramount for their well-being in a Kiwi home.
Is This the Right Pet for You?
The Red-tailed Black Shark can be a fantastic pet for the experienced aquarist who understands their specific needs. Their striking appearance and active behaviour make them a focal point in any aquarium. However, their territorial nature means careful consideration of tank mates and tank size is essential. They thrive in well-established freshwater tanks with plenty of hiding spots and good water quality. If you are prepared to provide a spacious environment, maintain excellent water parameters, and carefully select compatible tank mates, then a Red-tailed Black Shark could be a rewarding and visually stunning addition to your New Zealand home aquarium. They are not ideal for beginners or those with very small tanks.
Fun Facts
Fact 1
Despite their name, Red-tailed Black Sharks are not true sharks but belong to the carp family (Cyprinidae).
Fact 2
They are native to Thailand, specifically found in rivers and streams with clear, flowing water.
Fact 3
Their striking black body and vibrant red tail make them one of the most visually distinctive freshwater aquarium fish.
Fact 4
Red-tailed Black Sharks are known for their territorial behaviour, often 'claiming' specific areas within the aquarium.
Fact 5
They are excellent at controlling algae growth in an aquarium, making them a functional as well as beautiful addition.
Related Breeds
Betta Fish (Siamese Fighting Fish)
Betta Fish (Siamese Fighting Fish) is a small fish originating from Southeast Asia. PetMall has an official-source NZ status note for this listing; follow the listed MPI, DOC, EPA, and local council conditions before sourcing one. Typical lifespan is 2-5 years.
Black Moor Goldfish
Black Moor Goldfish is a small fish originating from China. NZ status is pending official verification in PetMall's government-source facts library; do not source, import, breed, sell, or keep one based only on this profile. Check MPI, EPA, DOC, and local council rules before sourcing one. Typical lifespan is 10-15 years.
Bristlenose Pleco
Bristlenose Pleco is a small fish originating from South America. NZ status is pending official verification in PetMall's government-source facts library; do not source, import, breed, sell, or keep one based only on this profile. Check MPI, EPA, DOC, and local council rules before sourcing one. Typical lifespan is 12-15 years.
Cardinal Tetra
Cardinal Tetra is a small fish originating from South America. PetMall has an official-source NZ status note for this listing; follow the listed MPI, DOC, EPA, and local council conditions before sourcing one. Typical lifespan is 4-5 years.