Rainbow Shark | Epalzeorhynchus frenatus

Cyprinds / Rainbow Shark

Profile: Red-fin Shark, Rainbow Shark, Ruby Shark
Epalzeorhynchus frenatus Synonyms: Labeo frenatus, L. erythrurus
Physical description: An elongated species with a more pointed snout than E. bicolor. The belly has a relatively flat profile and the caudal fin is forked. The body color is gray brown to black, with an occasional violet iridescence. The fins are orange-red to red. The rear parts of the anal fin of males are black. A short stripe extends from the gill cover, through the eye, and to the snout.
Size/Length: To 5.5" (14 cm)
Similar species: None
Habitat: Southeast Asia; the Mekong River in Thailand.
S: bottom, middle
Aquarium: A tank measuring 36" (91 cm) with a volume of 30 gallons (114 L) is adequate. Follow recommendations for E. bicolor .
Water chemistry: pH 6.2-7.5 (7.0), 2-15 dH (10), 73-79°F (23-26°C)
Social behavior: A territorial and intolerant fish, especially of its own and co-similar species. This fish can be kept in a community tank with robust, dissimilar species. Each fish will establish a territory and defend it against all intruders. It is possible to keep more than one specimen in a 48" (122 cm) tank. Some have success with keeping several fish (six or more) in one tank, as the aggressiveness can be evenly distributed.
Suggested companions: As for E. bicolor.
FOOD: Algae; flakes; tablets; vegetables; lettuce, spinach; live; insect larvae, Tubifex, crustaceans, aquatic insects.
SEX: Males are smaller with brighter colors. The anal fin is outlined with a black marking.
Breeding techniques: Spawnings have been reported, although details have not been made available. Spawning is likely similar to that of E. bicolor.
Breeding potential: 10. Few details are known about successful spawnings.
Remarks: An albino form is widely available.
Difficulty of care: 4. A territorial and aggressive species which requires a diet including live foods.