Pink-tail Chalceus
Chalceus macrolepidotus
Pink-tail Chalceus (Chalceus macrolepidotus) — Varies care, Peaceful, under Other. Minimum tank in the app: 63 US gal min; aim for 73–82°F and pH 6.5–7.5. The Pink-tail Chalceus is a visually striking fish ideal for aquarists seeking a mid-water swimmer with a dynamic personality.

Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.
Natural distribution
South America
- South America
Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.
Pink-tail Chalceus Tank Setup
Creating an ideal habitat for the Pink-tail Chalceus involves a balance of open swimming space and strategic cover. Use larger open areas for swimming while incorporating driftwood or rocks to provide hiding spots. A sandy or fine gravel substrate works well, and moderate to strong water flow mimics their natural environment.
What Do Pink-tail Chalceus Eat?
As an omnivore, the Pink-tail Chalceus has a good appetite and can compete for food. They may gobble up offerings quickly, so providing a varied diet with both prepared and live foods is essential to keep them healthy and vibrant.
Pink-tail Chalceus Tank Mates
Best suited with other mid-sized fish that can hold their own, such as larger tetras or barbs, the Pink-tail Chalceus thrives in a community where it feels secure. Avoid pairing with overly aggressive species, as well as smaller fish that may be seen as prey. When kept in groups, they do not shoal in the traditional sense but can benefit from a small number of companions to mitigate stress.
Are Pink-tail Chalceus Good for Beginners?
Care demand varies with setup and individual fish; use the numbers above as your baseline. Aquarists often underestimate the space requirements and filtration needs of this fish, leading to poor water quality and stress-related issues. neglecting to provide adequate hiding spots can provoke aggression and inhibit natural behaviors, resulting in a less harmonious tank environment.
Building a community? Run the full list through the stocking calculator before you add anything else.
Log tests and reminders in App-aquatic—free, same data you see here.




