Jumbo Flagtail Prochilodus (10”+)

 Flagtail Prochilodus Overview

• Common Names: Flagtail Prochilodus, Flagtail Characin

• Scientific Name: Semaprochilodus insignis

• Family: Prochilodontidae

• Origin: Amazon and Orinoco River basins (Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela)

• Adult Size: Up to 18 inches (45 cm) in the wild; typically 12–16 inches in captivity

• Lifespan: 10+ years with proper care

• Habitat: Large, slow to moderately flowing rivers, flooded forests, and tributaries

• Behavior in Wild:

  • Seasonal migrator — travels long distances to spawn

  • Schooling fish found in large groups

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

  • pH: 6.0–7.5

  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

Flagtail Prochilodus are primarily herbivorous/detritivorous in nature:

• Wild Diet: Algae, plant matter, detritus, and biofilm scraped from rocks and submerged wood

• In Captivity:

  • Algae wafers

  • Spirulina-based flakes or pellets

  • Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, lettuce, peas)

  • Some protein (e.g., bloodworms or brine shrimp) can be offered occasionally but shouldn't be the staple

They’re excellent algae grazers but do not rely solely on tank algae for sustenance!

• Tank Size:

  • Minimum 150 gallons (570 liters) for a single adult

  • Preferably 180+ gallons if keeping in a group or with other large fish

• Tank Setup:

  • Strong filtration (they’re messy eaters)

  • Open swimming space

  • Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

  • Driftwood and rocks for algae growth (not too densely packed)

• Behavior:

  • Compatible with other large, peaceful South American species (e.g., Silver Dollars, Severums, Geophagus)

Other things to consider:

• Jumping: Known jumpers — secure, tight-fitting lids are a must

• Growth: Quick growers; juvenile specimens outgrow small tanks rapidly

• Tank Maintenance: High bioload, so frequent water changes are important

• Coloration: Features striking red, black, and yellow stripes on the tail fin (hence the name)