Pink Tail Chalceus

Chalceus macrolepidotus, the Pink Tail Chalceus, is native to the Guianas and Amazon delta and is immediately recognisable by its large, highly reflective diamond-shaped scales and salmon-pink tail. A fast and powerful swimmer, it can reach 25 cm and is a predator of small fish and invertebrates. It is best kept in a species tank or with other very large, fast-moving fish and is not suitable for general community aquariums.

Water: 23–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard. Tank: 300 L minimum; very secure lid essential — a powerful jumper; spacious open aquarium. Feeding: Large pellets, feeder fish (if necessary), frozen shrimp, earthworms and meaty foods. Behaviour: Predatory and fast; may eat fish smaller than itself; assertive with conspecifics. Compatibility: Only with very large, robust fish such as large cichlids, arowanas, and large catfish.