Pink Tail Chalceus (2”)

cientific name: Chalceus macrolepidotus

• Maximum size and lifespan:

  • Can grow up to 10–12 inches 

  • Average lifespan of 8–10 years with proper care

• Recommended aquarium size, water changes, and care:

  • Minimum tank size: 125 gallons (285–340 L) for a single specimen/small group, larger tank for groups 6+

  • Requires a tight-fitting lid as this species is an excellent jumper

  • Water parameters:

    • Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)

    • pH: 6.0–7.5

  • Strong filtration and moderate water flow recommended, as they are active fish

  • Perform 30–40% weekly water changes to maintain water quality

• Tankmates:

  • Best with other robust, medium-to-large species that can tolerate their activity

  • Suitable tankmates: large semi aggresive South/Central American cichlids, silver dollars, medium-sized catfish, larger characins

  • Avoid: small fish (which may be eaten), overly aggressive cichlids, and delicate species

• Diet:

  • Naturally a surface-dwelling predator feeding on insects and small fish

  • In captivity, accepts:

    • High-quality floating carnivore pellets

    • Frozen shrimp and bloodworms
      

  • Should be fed a varied diet to maintain health and coloration

  • Feed 1-2 Times Daily with 1 day of fasting per week to avoid bloating

• Overview:

  • The Pink Tail Chalceus is a large, fast-swimming characin known for its metallic silver body, reddish fins, and distinctive pink tail

  • It requires plenty of open swimming space, with some driftwood or sturdy plants along the sides for cover

  • Works best in a well-secured tank with strong filtration and regular maintenance

• Natural environment:

  • Native to South America, found in rivers, streams, and floodplain lakes across the Amazon and Orinoco basins

  • Typically inhabits surface waters where it hunts insects and small fish

• Breeding:

  • Rarely bred in captivity, with most specimens wild-caught

  • Breeding would require very large, dimly lit tanks with soft, acidic water and floating plants

  • Known to be egg scatterers, releasing eggs among vegetation

  • No parental care; fry would need to be removed and raised on infusoria and baby brine shrimp