Chalceus erythrurus, commonly known as the Pinktail Chalceus, is a striking freshwater fish native to the rivers and streams of South America, particularly in the Amazon and Orinoco basins. This species is noted for its sleek, elongated body, shimmering silver scales, and distinct pink to red tail fin, which gives it its common name. Pinktail Chalceus are active swimmers and are known for their impressive jumping ability, so a securely covered aquarium is essential.

These fish prefer well-oxygenated waters with moderate to strong currents and thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water conditions, with temperatures ranging from 72-82°F (22-28°C). They are generally peaceful but can be somewhat skittish and may show aggression towards smaller tank mates, so it's best to keep them with similarly sized, robust fish.

Their diet in the wild consists mainly of insects, crustaceans, and smaller fish, so in captivity, they should be fed a varied diet of high-quality pellets, flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods to ensure their health and vibrant coloration. Pinktail Chalceus are appreciated in the aquarium hobby for their beauty and dynamic swimming behavior.