This is a hybrid Catfish that grows to a large size and is thought to naturally occur in the wild in rivers in South America. It is a cross between a regular Tiger Shovelnose and a Red-Tailed Catfish. This fairly new species is becoming popular with many collectors, hobbyists and zoos everywhere.

Scientific name: Phractocephalus hemiliopterus X Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum

Common name: Red tail - Tiger shovelnose cross

Adult Size: 80cm+

Water: The water of the natural habitats of the parent species is soft and acidic, but both are hardy and adaptable, so more alkaline conditions are not usually a problem.

Aquarium:  A tank of 3 x 1.2 x 1.2m/10' x 4' x 4' would be advisable for a single specimen, with an enormous filtration system to match. To allow sufficient swimming room, you need to furnish the tank with heavy, smooth boulders or large pieces of bogwood.