Red Tail Tiger Shovelnose Catfish
P. fasciatum × P. hemioliopterus
See them at Whitby
Animals on display may vary.
Diet
Like both of his parent species, Tito is a carnivore. These catfish eat fish, crustaceans and other meaty foods.
Average lifespan
Large catfish like Tito can live 15 to 20 years or more in human care.
Size
Hybrids like Tito can grow over 1 metre (3 feet) long, taking after their large parent species.
Weight
Large adults can weigh 10 kilograms (22 pounds) or more.
About
Meet Tito, our Red Tail Tiger Shovelnose Catfish at Reptilia Whitby. Tito is a hybrid – a cross between a Tiger Shovelnose Catfish and a Red Tail Catfish, both large predatory catfish from the rivers of South America. Hybrids like Tito don’t occur in the wild; they are bred in the aquarium trade. Tito came to us as a donation in January 2025 and now shares the big Mertens’ water monitor exhibit with our arowana, peacock bass and other fish.
Size and behavior
Tito shows features of both parents: the long, flattened ‘shovel’ snout and spotted pattern of the tiger shovelnose, with the heavier build of the red tail catfish. Like all catfish he has long whiskers called barbels, which are packed with taste and touch receptors to help him find food in murky water. He is most active around dusk and at night.
Diet and nutrition
In the wild, both parent species hunt fish and crustaceans along river bottoms, swallowing prey whole. At Reptilia, Tito is fed a varied diet of fish and other protein-rich foods sized for his large mouth.
Tropical Rivers & Lakes
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Conservation status
As a hybrid, Tito has no wild population or conservation status. Both of his parent species are found across South America’s river systems and are not considered threatened, though large catfish face pressure from overfishing and dams.
Fun fact
Big catfish like Tito are often bought as small, cute aquarium fish – but they can quickly outgrow home tanks. Many end up needing new homes, which is why Reptilia takes in donated fish like Tito and gives them space to grow.
Common Name: Red Tail Tiger Shovelnose Catfish
Also known as: Tito
Visit in person
Animals on display vary by location and may change from day to day.