Common Name: Short Body Flagtail Prochilodus
Scientific Name: Semaprochilodus insignis (Selective Short Body Variant)
Other Names: Short Body Flagtail, Short Body Fei Feng
The Short Body Flagtail Prochilodus is a selectively bred variant of Semaprochilodus insignis, featuring a more compact and rounded body while retaining the striking red-orange tail and silver-scaled appearance of the standard Flagtail. This species is known for its constant grazing behavior, playing a crucial role in algae control within large aquariums. Despite its altered body shape, it remains an active and strong swimmer that requires ample space and excellent water quality.
Habitat and Distribution:
The natural form of Semaprochilodus insignis is found in the Amazon River Basin, specifically in slow-moving rivers, flooded forests, and tributaries across Brazil, Colombia, and Peru. These fish migrate seasonally between blackwater and whitewater regions, thriving in warm, well-oxygenated environments. The Short Body Flagtail is a man-made variant selectively bred for its compact body structure and does not exist in the wild.
Size and Lifespan:
While the standard Flagtail Prochilodus can reach 14-16 inches (35-40 cm), the Short Body variant typically maxes out at 10-12 inches (25-30 cm). With proper care, they can live for 8-12 years.
Diet and Behavior:
The Short Body Flagtail Prochilodus is an herbivorous grazer, constantly foraging on biofilm, algae, and plant material. In captivity, they should be provided with a diet consisting of high-quality vegetable-based pellets, spirulina, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and occasional protein-rich foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp. They are generally peaceful but may become territorial toward other similar-looking fish.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Semaprochilodus insignis in captivity is extremely rare, and the Short Body variant is no exception. In the wild, they are migratory spawners that require large seasonal changes in water conditions and space for reproduction. Most individuals in the aquarium trade are farm-raised.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 125 gallons is recommended for a single specimen, with a larger tank (150+ gallons) needed for groups. Their ideal tank setup includes a fine sand or smooth gravel substrate, strong filtration with high oxygenation, moderate to strong water flow to mimic river conditions, plenty of open swimming space, and moderate lighting to encourage natural grazing behavior.
Ideal Tank Mates:
The Short Body Flagtail Prochilodus is generally peaceful but can be mildly territorial with other algae-grazing species. Suitable tank mates include Silver Dollars, Larger Barbs, Bala Sharks, Geophagus Cichlids, Severums, Uaru Cichlids, Larger Plecos, and Arowanas. Avoid housing them with slow-moving fish or small species that may be outcompeted for food.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate to Advanced. They require a spacious aquarium, strong water flow, and a stable plant-based diet to remain healthy.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 6.0-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 5-15 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-10 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- They are excellent algae grazers but should still receive supplemental food.
- A strong current is beneficial, as they originate from fast-moving waters.
- Best kept in groups of at least three to encourage natural schooling behavior.
The Short Body Flagtail Prochilodus is a unique and visually striking variant of an already popular species. With proper care, it can serve as an excellent centerpiece fish while contributing to natural algae control in large aquariums.
