Phractocephalus hemioliopterus Breeding Guide

The redtail catfish Phractocephalus hemioliopterus is a giant predator bred only commercially by hormone-induced hybridisation, never at home.

Overview

Phractocephalus hemioliopterus, the redtail catfish, is a giant long-whiskered catfish of the family Pimelodidae native to the Amazon, Orinoco and Essequibo basins of South America. It can reach about 1.8 m in length and around 80 kg in weight, with most individuals averaging 1.1-1.4 m.

Spawning Behavior & Trigger

According to Wikipedia the species breeds using external fertilisation after laying its eggs. The article provides no details of wild spawning frequency or natural triggers.

Commercial Reproduction & Hybrids

The redtail catfish has been hybridised with other fish, such as Pseudoplatystoma (tiger shovelnose) catfish, through the use of hormones, in attempts to create a viable food fish. These hybrids sometimes enter the aquarium hobby, but they are products of controlled commercial induction rather than home breeding. Juveniles offered as aquarium fish do not indicate domestic reproduction.