Epalzeorhynchus bicolor 4–5 cm (Epalzeorhynchus bicolor), commonly known as the red-tailed black shark or bicolor labeo, is a territorial mid–bottom dwelling fish from Thailand. At 4–5 cm these are juvenile specimens; as adults they reach 12–15 cm. They belong to our freshwater range and are suitable only for large, well-equipped tanks with plenty of structure.

Behavior and care

Epalzeorhynchus bicolor is territorial and may be aggressive towards conspecifics and similarly shaped fish. In most setups it is best kept as a single specimen per aquarium, especially in tanks below 400 litres.

For an adult we recommend at least 200 litres in a long, spacious tank with strong filtration and many visual barriers such as wood, rocks and dense plants. Use starter bacteria when cycling the tank and monitor parameters with water tests. Good tankmates are medium-sized, active schooling fish occupying mainly the upper and middle water layers.

Diet

In nature this species grazes on algae, biofilm and small invertebrates (aufwuchs/omnivorous). In the aquarium, provide a staple diet of sinking pellets and vegetable-based wafers (spirulina, algae), supplemented with a small amount of protein-rich foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae or other frozen foods.

Vary the diet using our specialised foods and feed one or two small meals per day. Avoid overfeeding: this fish spends much of its time foraging but does not need large portions.

Water parameters

• Ideal temperature: 23 – 27 °C
• pH: 6.5 – 7.5
• GH: 5 – 15 °dGH
• KH: 3 – 10 °dKH
• Conductivity: 150 – 500 µS

The bicolor labeo prefers clean, well-oxygenated and stable water. Before adding the fish, treat tap water with an appropriate water conditioner. Combine efficient filtration with regular maintenance using maintenance tools and weekly water changes.

This species is sensitive to high nitrate levels and sudden changes, so aim for consistent, moderate water changes rather than infrequent large ones.

Decor and environment

Provide a layout with plenty of decorations (driftwood, rocks, caves) and dense live planting to create hiding places and territories. A fine or rounded aquarium substrate is ideal.

A suitable lighting system will highlight the deep black body and bright red tail, especially against a dark background and substrate.

Care sheet

AquaBota tip

Keep only one Epalzeorhynchus bicolor per tank, provide a complex, structured layout and maintain excellent water quality to enjoy this iconic fish without major compatibility issues.
Stability = success: monitor pH, hardness and nitrate with our water tests and adjust your water change routine accordingly.

Shipping and delivery of live fish

Fish are shipped with great care in insulated, purpose-designed packaging to ensure their safety during transport.

Delivery methods

• France Express (secure home delivery in France, Belgium and Luxembourg)
• In-store pickup in Sombreffe (Belgium)

Shipping schedule

• Order cut-off: every Monday at 10:00.
• France: shipments on Monday or Tuesday, depending on the destination department, for delivery between Tuesday and Thursday.
• Belgium and Luxembourg: shipments on Monday and Tuesday for delivery between Tuesday and Wednesday.