Red-tailed Golden Mahseer (Tor yingjiangensis)

Red-tailed Golden Mahseer — Tor yingjiangensis

River royalty built for current

The Red-tailed Golden Mahseer is a powerhouse cyprinid that blends athleticism with regal color. A metallic gold body flashes under strong lighting, contrasted by a deep red tail and warm amber fins that intensify as the fish matures. Thick, armor-like scales and a broad head give it a commanding profile, while the forked tail and torpedo body reveal exactly what it was designed for — life in fast mountain rivers.

Native to high-oxygen river systems of Southeast Asia, Tor yingjiangensis is constantly in motion. Unlike ambush predators, this species thrives on current, cruising midwater with strength and stamina. In groups, they move like freshwater tuna — coordinated, alert, and explosive at feeding time. Their presence instantly turns a large tank into a flowing river exhibit.

Growing to 24–36+ inches in proper conditions, this is a serious long-term commitment suited for very large aquariums or indoor pond systems. When housed correctly, they are hardy, confident, and highly responsive to feeding routines.

Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 300 gallons (pond or 8+ ft tank strongly recommended long term)

• Substrate: Sand, smooth gravel, or river rock

• Flow: Moderate to strong current

• Décor: Open swimming lanes with rock structure along edges

• Lighting: Moderate to bright

• Cover: Secure lid required

• Oxygen: Very high dissolved oxygen essential

Tank Mates

Best with other large, fast, confident species:

• Large barbs

• Datnoids

• Arowana (space dependent)

• Large catfish

• Other large riverine fish

Avoid slow, delicate species or very small fish.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to medium

• Filtration: Oversized filtration required

• Water Quality: Pristine, highly oxygenated water is critical

Diet

Omnivorous with strong appetite:

• High-quality large pellets

• Shrimp and prawn

• Insects

• Occasional vegetable matter and fruit