How to Identify Redtail Black Shark

To identify Redtail Black Shark (Epalzeorhynchos bicolor), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The body is uniformly velvety black, contrasting sharply with a vivid red to orange caudal (tail) fin. The other fins are typically black.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Jet-black body coloration, Bright red-orange caudal fin, Inferior mouth with two pairs of barbels, Elongated, torpedo-shaped body

Dorsal fin

Single, prominent, and triangular, typically black.

Tail fin

Deeply forked, vibrant red-orange.

Pectoral fin

Paired, relatively small, black.

Distinctive fins

The striking contrast between the black body and red tail is the most distinctive fin feature.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Color

   Look for a solid, deep black body. Any other body coloration (e.g., grey, brown, or patterned) indicates a different species.

2. 2

   Tail Color

   The caudal fin must be a distinct, bright red or orange. No other fins should be this color.

3. 3

   Mouth and Barbels

   Observe the inferior mouth with two pairs of small barbels, characteristic of the genus Epalzeorhynchos.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   Its elongated, somewhat flattened ventral profile is typical for a bottom-dwelling cyprinid.

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