Platinum Redtail Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus)

This a platinum color variant often referred to as leucistic. That means the absences of color pigmentation, make them all white with black eyes. The redtail catfish, Phractocephalus hemioliopterus, is a pimelodid catfish. In Venezuela it is known as cajaro and in Brazil it is known as pirarara. Phractocephalus hemioliopterus, or redtail catfish, are often known as the vacuums of the tank that will not only eat anything they can fit in their mouth that looks appetizing but also grow to a grand length of 2 feet within one year! Their growth in length depends on how much they are eating and if they have enough in an aquarium to grow. These freshwater catfish are black on top and white stomachs as well as red tail fins. They are carnivorous but are often peaceful, and sometimes temperamental towards other species of fish.