RED TAILED BLACK SHARK

6Scientific name: Epalzeorhynchos bicolor

6Pronunciation: Ay-pal-zay-oh-rin-koss bee-koh-lor

6Size: To 12.5cm

6Origin: Endemic to Thailand and thought extinct until recently

6Habitat: Flowing clear streams with rocky and sandy substrates 6Tank size: 120x45x30cm for a single fish

6Water requirements: Soft and acidic to slightly alkaline water;

6.0-7.8pH, 2-20°H

6Temperature: 20-28°C

6Temperament: Peaceful community

species, sometimes territorial with its own

6Feeding: Aufwuchs, algae and crustaceans in the wild, takes well to flake and pellets in aquaria

6Availability and cost: One of fishkeeping’s

‘Hall of Fame’ species and available in almost every store, prices from around £5