Flagtail Prochilodus
The Flagtail Prochilodus is a silver, freshwater characin from the Amazon basin known for its distinctive red and black striped tail. These fish have large pursed lips, grow to over 10 inches long, and are active algae-eaters. They require large tanks with powerful filtration, strong currents, and tight-fitting lids to prevent them from jumping.
Physical Characteristics
| Size | Can grow to about 10-12 inches (25-30 cm), sometimes larger. |
|---|---|
| Coloration | Silvery body, large pursed lips, and a prominent tail with bold alternating black and orange stripes. |
| Juveniles | Not specified in available data. |
FAQ
What is the typical size of a Flagtail Prochilodus?
The Flagtail Prochilodus can grow to about 10-12 inches (25-30 cm), sometimes larger.
What does the Flagtail Prochilodus look like?
It has a silvery body, large pursed lips, and a prominent tail with bold alternating black and orange stripes.
What kind of tank conditions do they need?
They require large tanks with powerful filtration, strong currents, and tight-fitting lids to prevent jumping.

Neil Kerr –
I bought this fish for my 120-gallon tank. It’s active and beautiful with its striking tail pattern. I had to install a secure lid because it jumps a lot. The algae-eating behavior is impressive and keeps the tank clean.
Alexandra Gray –
The fish looks great and is quite active. I noticed it spends a lot of time near the water surface. I’m using strong flow and a tight lid. It’s not the easiest fish to keep, but worth it for the appearance.
Joshua Simpson –
After a few weeks, the Flagtail Prochilodus has become a centerpiece of my tank. It’s very curious and eats algae efficiently. I’ve had to upgrade my filter to handle the current demand.