Red Tail Hemiodus

Red Tail Hemiodus from Tropical Exotics is a striking, streamlined characin prized for its elegant silver body, vivid red tail, and peaceful schooling behavior — a perfect focal point for river-style community aquariums and biotope displays.

Native to South American waterways, the Red Tail Hemiodus (often seen in hobby circles under the Hemiodus group) brings graceful movement and a splash of color without aggressive tendencies. Its long, torpedo-shaped body and translucent fins create captivating motion as it glides midwater in groups.

• Distinctive appearance: Silvery lateral body with a bright red tail and subtle iridescence that catches aquarium lighting.
• Temperament: Peaceful, shoaling fish best kept in groups of 6 or more for natural behavior and reduced stress.
• Tank requirements: Prefers a medium to large aquarium (40+ gallons) with open swimming space, gentle water flow, and plenty of shaded areas created by plants or driftwood.
• Water parameters: Thrives in soft to moderately hard water, slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.5), and temperatures between 74–82°F (23–28°C).
• Diet: Omnivorous — accepts high-quality flake, pellets, live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia for optimal color and vitality.
• Compatibility: Ideal for peaceful community tanks with tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and other non-aggressive species that occupy different levels of the aquarium.

Why aquarists choose Tropical Exotics' Red Tail Hemiodus: Each specimen is selected for health, vibrant coloration, and strong schooling instincts. Our experts ensure fish are acclimated and shipment-ready, so your new additions arrive lively and ready to thrive.

Care tips: Maintain stable water conditions, feed a varied diet to enhance red tail pigmentation, and provide a planted aquascape with open swimming lanes and gentle lighting to mimic natural habitat.

Whether you’re building a South American biotope or upgrading a community tank, the Red Tail Hemiodus adds dynamic motion and beautiful contrast — a standout choice from Tropical Exotics for hobbyists seeking elegance, ease of care, and reliable compatibility.