Red-finned Chalceus | Chalceus erythrurus
Large, metallic scales, a dark shoulder spot and a vivid reddish tail give the Red-finned Chalceus a striking appearance. Also known as the Tucan Fish, this South American characin spends much of its time near the surface. It needs a spacious aquarium planned around its adult size and active swimming behaviour.
At a Glance
| Origin & habitat |
Amazon basin, including Peru and Brazil; surface waters of rivers and floodplain lakes. |
| Adult size |
Approximately 20–25 cm; allow for a substantial, fast-swimming adult. |
| Temperature |
22–26°C |
| Water chemistry |
pH 6.0–7.0; hardness 5–15°dGH. |
| Swimming level |
Primarily the upper water layers. |
Aquarium & Setup
Consider 120 × 45 × 45 cm, approximately 243 litres before displacement, the minimum starting point for a single specimen; a longer, larger aquarium is preferable. Groups and tankmates require considerably more room. Keep broad swimming lanes clear, with driftwood and planting towards the edges. Provide good filtration, oxygenation and water movement, plus some overhead shade. Fit a secure, gap-free lid: Chalceus are powerful jumpers.
Behaviour & Compatibility
Choose robust, similarly sized companions that cannot be swallowed. Small tetras, tiny fish and ornamental shrimp are unsuitable. Avoid crowding the surface with other active species. Keep one Chalceus, or plan a substantial group in a much larger aquarium with advice from our aquatic team; pairs and small groups can quarrel. Check the adult size and needs of every companion before mixing.
Feeding & Nutrition
Offer suitable carnivore pellets alongside varied, appropriately sized frozen or thawed foods such as bloodworm, chopped prawn and mussel. Its natural diet includes insects and aquatic crustaceans. Remove leftovers promptly.
Routine Care
Use a fully cycled aquarium. Check appetite, breathing, temperature and equipment daily. Test water regularly, keep ammonia and nitrite at zero, and make regular partial water changes with conditioned, temperature-matched water. Preserve biological filtration when cleaning. Confirm the current feeding routine with our team when collecting.
Live Animals Are Click & Collect Only
We do not ship live animals. Order online and wait for your collection confirmation before visiting Newlands Home & Garden Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. Have the aquarium ready before collection.
Individual colour and markings vary.
