Rainbow Shark
Epalzeorhynchos frenatum
Minimum Tank
55 Gallons
Adult Size
6 inches
Temperature
72-79°F (22-26°C)
pH Range
6.5-7.5
Lifespan
8 years
About Rainbow Shark
The rainbow shark is a sleek, dark-bodied fish with vivid red-orange fins native to the rivers of Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. An albino variant with a white body and red fins is equally popular. Despite the name, rainbow sharks are not true sharks but cyprinids related to barbs. They are semi-aggressive, bottom-dwelling fish that establish and vigorously defend territories against other bottom-dwellers and similar-looking species. Rainbow sharks are active swimmers that patrol the lower levels of the aquarium with purpose and determination. Their combination of striking appearance and bold personality makes them popular centerpiece fish, though their territorial behavior requires thoughtful tankmate planning.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 55-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- • pH: 6.5 - 7.5
- • Category: Catfish
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Rainbow sharks need a tank of at least 55 gallons with plenty of caves, rocks, and driftwood to establish territories. Keep only one rainbow shark per tank and avoid similar-looking species like red tail sharks and flying foxes. They are most aggressive toward other bottom-dwellers, so stock the lower levels carefully and provide numerous hiding spots. They generally ignore mid-water and surface-dwelling species. Feed sinking pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and frozen foods at 72-79°F. They are hardy and adaptable to a range of conditions. Rainbow sharks become more territorial as they mature, so plan for their adult behavior rather than their juvenile docility.
Quick Facts
208L
Min Tank (55gal)
15cm
Adult Size (6")
8yr
Lifespan
1+
Can Keep Solo
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Rainbow Shark
Related Species You Might Like
Red Tail Shark
Epalzeorhynchos bicolor
Flying Fox
Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus
Pictus Catfish
Pimelodus pictus
Otocinclus
Otocinclus sp.
Glass Catfish
Kryptopterus vitreolus
Pygmy Corydoras
Corydoras pygmaeus
Tank Mates for Rainbow Shark
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Electric Blue Acara
Andinoacara pulcher var.
easy · 30+ gal
Severum
Heros severus
moderate · 55+ gal
Red Tail Shark
Epalzeorhynchos bicolor
moderate · 55+ gal
Flying Fox
Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus
moderate · 40+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other moderate-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Rainbow Shark need?
A Rainbow Shark needs a minimum tank size of 55 gallons (208 litres).
What water parameters does a Rainbow Shark need?
Rainbow Shark thrive in water between 72-79°F (22-26°C) with a pH of 6.5-7.5.
Are Rainbow Shark easy to care for?
Rainbow Shark are considered moderate to care for. They are semi-aggressive fish with a lifespan of about 8 years.
How big do Rainbow Shark get and what do they eat?
Rainbow Shark reach about 6 inches and are omnivores. Rainbow sharks need a tank of at least 55 gallons with plenty of caves, rocks, and driftwood to establish territories. Keep only one rainbow shark per tank and avoid similar-looking species like red tail sharks and flying foxes. They are most aggressive toward other bottom-dwellers, so stock the lower levels carefully and provide numerous hiding spots. They generally ignore mid-water and surface-dwelling species. Feed sinking pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and frozen foods at 72-79°F. They are hardy and adaptable to a range of conditions. Rainbow sharks become more territorial as they mature, so plan for their adult behavior rather than their juvenile docility.