Redtail catfish — printable fact sheet
Free to print or save as PDF. Great for classrooms, homeschooling, and young explorers.
Creature Atlas
Animal Fact Sheet
Name: ____________________
Date: ____________________
Redtail catfish
Phractocephalus hemioliopterus
The Redtail catfish is a large freshwater fish native to the Amazon, Orinoco, and Essequibo river basins in South America. It is easily recognized by its striking reddish-orange tail and long whisker-like barbels. This catfish is a bottom-dweller, using its sensitive barbels to …
Did you know?
- Despite their popularity in home aquariums, Redtail catfish often outgrow most tanks, sometimes leading to their release into non-native waters where they can become invasive.
- Redtail catfish can grow to over 1.5 meters in length and are known for their aggressive feeding behavior. They are sometimes called 'banana catfish' due to their body shape and coloration. These fish use their long barbels to sense vibrations and locate prey in muddy waters.
What I learned
Draw the redtail catfish
© Creature Atlas · www.creatureatlas.com · Free for classroom & personal use
Want the whole set?
Get printable fact-sheet packs, coloring pages, and classroom worksheet bundles for dozens of animals — ready to download and print.
Browse printable packsGet a free printable each week
Join the newsletter for a new Creature of the Week + printables.