XL Platinum Tiger Shovelnose x Redtail Catfish (18”)

Platinum Tiger Shovelnose x Redtail Catfish Hybrid Overview

• Common Name: Platinum Tiger Shovelnose x Redtail Catfish Hybrid

• Scientific Name: Pseudoplatystoma tigrinum (Tiger Shovelnose) x Phractocephalus hemioliopterus (Redtail Catfish) Hybrid

• Family: Pimelodidae

• Origin: Hybrid; parent species are native to the Amazon Basin (South America).

• Adult Size: Typically 36–48 inches

• Lifespan: Can live up to 15+ years with proper care.

• Temperament: They can be territorial towards other tankmates and predatory on smaller ones,  Natural Environment

• Habitat:

  • As a hybrid, the Platinum Tiger Shovelnose x Redtail Catfish would inherit the characteristics of both parent species, which are found in the Amazon and Orinoco River Basins in South America.

  • These rivers are slow-moving, with muddy substrates and dense aquatic vegetation. The environment is typically tropical, with warmer temperatures and soft, slightly acidic water.

  • Both parent species are accustomed to deeper waters near submerged structures like logs, rocks, and branches.

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: Prefers 75–82°F (24–28°C), matching the tropical waters of their native habitat.

  • pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.5–7.5

  • Water Flow: Gentle to moderate water flow to mimic the river systems they are adapted to.

• Behavior:

  • Nocturnal and predatory, this hybrid species is mostly active at night and enjoys hiding during the day.

  • It is solitary and typically territorial, particularly as it reaches maturity.

  • They are peaceful towards other large fish, but their predatory nature means that smaller fish are at risk of being eaten.

 Diet

The hybrid inherits the carnivorous and opportunistic feeding habits of both parent species:

• In the wild, both the Tiger Shovelnose and Redtail Catfish feed on:

  • Smaller fish (including tetras, characins, and small catfish)

  • Crustaceans (e.g., shrimp)

  • Invertebrates (such as worms, mollusks, and insect larvae)

  • Fish eggs and detritus found in the riverbed.

• In captivity, their diet should consist of:

  • Frozen foods tilapia and shrimp

  • Sinking carnivore pellets or high-quality protein-rich pellets.

They have a high metabolism and require a protein-rich diet to support their growth and maintain health. Due to their size, they need frequent, substantial feedings.

 Recommended Aquarium Setup

The Platinum Tiger Shovelnose x Redtail Catfish Hybrid is massive and requires a specialized aquarium setup to thrive. These hybrids are not suitable for most home aquariums due to their size and the space they need to swim and grow.

• Tank Size:

  • A minimum of 125 gallons is recommended for a juvenile hybrid, but as they grow, the tank will need to be 300-500 gallons or larger.

  • As they grow, they need ample swimming space and areas to hide. This species does not do well in cramped quarters, and it will outgrow typical community tank setups within a few years.

• Aquascaping:

  • The tank should have plenty of open swimming space for the catfish to move around.

  • Use soft, sandy or fine gravel substrates to replicate their natural riverbed environment.

  • Add submerged structures, such as large rocks and driftwood to provide hiding places and mimic the environment of the Amazon.

  • Provide caves or large shelters for the catfish to retreat to during the day, as they are nocturnal and prefer hiding during daylight hours.

• Water Conditions:

  • A strong filtration system is essential, as these fish produce a large amount of waste.

  • Regular water changes (about 50% weekly) are critical for maintaining optimal water conditions.

• Tank Mates:

  • Large fish like other large catfish, giant cichlids (e.g., Oscar), or large plecos (e.g., Common Pleco) can be kept with them.

  • Avoid smaller fish, as they will be viewed as prey.

  • Due to their territorial nature as they grow, avoid keeping more than one hybrid in a tank unless it’s very large and offers plenty of hiding spaces.

  • No aggressive tankmates or fast swimmers that might compete for food or stress the hybrid.

 Other Considerations

• Growth Rate:

  • These hybrids grow extremely fast, especially in their first few years. They can reach over a foot in length within the first year.

  • It’s crucial to provide them with a tank large enough to accommodate their growth. Failure to do so can result in stress and health issues.

• Feeding Frequency:

  • Juveniles can be fed every day, but adults will require more substantial meals every other day or 2–3 times per week once older.

  • Because of their size and metabolism, regular feeding is necessary, and it's important to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to water quality issues.

• Water Quality:

  • Monitor ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, and pH levels to ensure they stay within optimal ranges.

  • Filtration must be high quality and adequate for the tank size.