Flagtail Prochilodus

The Silver Prochilodus, also known as the Flagtail Characin (Semaprochilodus taeniurus), is a large, peaceful, silver-bodied freshwater fish from the Amazon basin, famous for its striking black and orange-striped tail fin. It's a popular aquarium fish that needs good filtration and open swimming space, as it's an active algae grazer that requires a diet rich in plant matter. They are migratory in the wild and are a staple food fish in South America, but can be territorial in smaller tanks, so they should be kept in large groups or with similar-sized tank mates. 

Physical Characteristics

• Body: Silvery, flattened body, sometimes with black spots or faint stripes. 

• Tail: Large, fan-shaped tail with bold, alternating black and orange stripes. 

• Fins: Dorsal fin is tall and dark with orange markings; anal fin has black and orange stripes. 

• Size: Can grow up to 12-14 inches (30-35 cm) or more in captivity. 

Aquarium Care

• Water Parameters: Temp: 75-82°F (24-28°C); pH: 6.0-7.5; good hardness. 

• Filtration: Requires strong filtration and high oxygenation due to its natural habitat in moving water. 

• Aquascaping: Needs open swimming space; will eat or uproot most plants, so use hardy species or none at all. A tight-fitting lid is essential as they can jump. 

Diet & Behavior

• Diet: Omnivorous with a strong herbivorous tendency; eats algae, biofilm, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables. 

• Behavior: Peaceful but active and energetic; can be territorial if space is limited. 

• Tank Mates: Best with other large, peaceful fish.

Key Considerations

• Space: Their large size and active nature demand a very spacious tank. 

• Algae Control: Excellent "clean-up crew" for large tanks due to their constant grazing. 

• Schooling: Prefers to be in groups