Black-tailed Payara
NameBlack-tailed Payara
Scientific NameHydrolycus armatus
Common NamesBlack-tailed Payara, Payara, Vampire Tetra, Armored Payara
FamilyCynodontidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco Basin, Essequibo Basin
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)500
Max Size (Inches)30
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Arowanas, Large Catfish (e.g., Redtail Catfish), Other large, robust predatory fish that cannot be swallowed
Description
The Black-tailed Payara is a formidable predatory fish known for its large size and prominent fangs. Native to the Amazon basin, it is a highly aggressive piscivore that requires an expert-level aquarist. Due to its immense size and predatory nature, it needs an extremely large aquarium.
