Yet Another Red Tailed Shark thread....

**Canadian Fish** · 09-22-2012, 03:50 PM

I see on most profiles that the minimum tank size for a RTS is 48". I was wondering if one could like comfortably in a 36" 35 gallon tank if he was the only fish in the tank? Or is it just too cramped?

**Goes to 11!** · 09-22-2012, 04:07 PM

Good on you for doing the research.

Considering that you know what an RTS needs... The real question is actually this:

Why do you want to house a fish somewhere that does not meet it's requirements.

**Canadian Fish** · 09-22-2012, 04:59 PM

Originally Posted by 850R

Good on you for doing the research.

Considering that you know what an RTS needs... The real question is actually this:

Why do you want to house a fish somewhere that does not meet it's requirements.

Well, I figured most people house them with other fish, and the 48" tank would help with territoriality. I thought if it was all his territory, maybe he'd be ok in a 36. Badman's profile says 36" is minimum tank size, and another site said they need a yard of their own territory, which is 36". So I guess what I'm asking is, is 48" really necessary for this fish to be content, if the territory is all his?

See, when I do my research, I don't just read one profile. Then, if the profiles conflict, I ask opinions from people with hands on experience with the fish.
This site does not list a minimum tank size on it's profile page on the RTS, that I can see.

**Goes to 11!** · 09-22-2012, 05:08 PM

I like the way you are thinking wrt research.

That was my thought also that since it was all his own territory it might be ok but I was curious lol. I do agree that a large part of why the 48" is heard so often is most likely for the protection of other stock in the tank.

This is not an issue for you so I say go for it.

Actually, I don't have any issues with RTS being solo in a 3' tank and I do think Badmans is an excellent source.

Years ago I kept one [Re-homed due to aggresion] but have no recent experiences to offer.

Good luck.

**Canadian Fish** · 09-22-2012, 05:20 PM

I've always thought they were good looking fish. My fish tank was a 20, which of course was too small. Then I got a 55, but I worried about an RTS harassing my rainbowfish to death, so I held off. Same thing for my next 55, worried about the other fish. And I just can't bring myself to dedicating a 48" 55 gallon tank to a single 6" fish.

The 35 housed a ryukin goldfish. He died. (I'm the only person on earth who has no trouble keeping tropical fish alive, but kills a goldfish) :( So I thought if it was large enough I could redecorate and get a heater and FINALLY get an RTS.

Shame bout the goldfish. I have a Tetra Whisper 45 and an Aquaclear 70 on that tank, managed to keep the ammonia at zero and nitrates at 5 ppm, and he still died.

**Goes to 11!** · 09-22-2012, 05:24 PM

Bummer about your GF. But I DO have to congratulate you on your knowledge and discipline in applying that knowledge.

Knowledge without application is useless but you did what was right so good on you dude.

Nice job.

I agree they are good looking fish, Just too much of a PITA for some other tank mates at times you know... Too much for me anyway :-P

Enjoy your RTS

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