Albino Rainbow Fish

Description

• The Albino Rainbow Shark (Epalzeorhynchos frenatum), also known as the Albino Ruby Shark or Albino Red-Finned Shark, is a striking freshwater fish popular in the aquarium trade. This variant of the Rainbow Shark is a member of the Cyprinidae family, not a true shark, and is native to the freshwater river basins of Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.

  Physical Description:

  • Coloration: The Albino Rainbow Shark has a pale white to pinkish body due to a lack of pigmentation, contrasting vividly with its vibrant red to orange-red fins. Its red eyes further enhance its unique appearance.
  • Body Shape: It features a sleek, elongated, torpedo-shaped body with a pointed snout and a flat abdominal area. The upright dorsal fin resembles that of a shark, contributing to its name.
  • Size: Typically grows to about 6 inches (15 cm) in length, though some may reach up to 7-8 inches in rare cases.
  • Sexual Dimorphism: Males are slimmer with brighter coloration and may have slender grey or black lines along their tail fins. Females are thicker with more rounded bellies, especially when mature.

  Behavior and Temperament:

  • Territorial Nature: Albino Rainbow Sharks are semi-aggressive and territorial, particularly toward their own species or similar-looking fish (e.g., Red Tail Sharks, Siamese Algae Eaters). They are best kept singly in smaller tanks to avoid aggression, though larger tanks with ample hiding spots may allow for multiple specimens.
  • Activity: Active swimmers, they spend most of their time at the bottom of the tank, grazing on algae and biofilm, making them effective aquarium cleaners.
  • Juvenile vs. Adult Behavior: Juveniles are more timid and prone to hiding, while adults become bolder and more territorial.

  Habitat and Tank Requirements:

  • Tank Size: A minimum of 50-55 gallons is recommended for a single specimen, with at least 150 liters (40 gallons) for adequate swimming space. Groups require larger tanks (200+ liters).
  • Substrate and Decor: Mimic their natural riverine habitat with a sandy or gravel substrate, rocks, driftwood, and hardy plants (e.g., Java Fern, Anubias). Provide caves and tunnels to reduce territorial disputes and stress.
  • Water Parameters:
    • Temperature: 72-81°F (22-27°C)
    • pH: 6.5-7.5
    • Hardness: 5-15 dGH
    • Strong filtration and moderate water flow are essential, as they are sensitive to organic waste buildup.
  • Lighting: Moderate lighting with shaded areas created by decorations or plants.

  Diet:

  • Omnivorous: Albino Rainbow Sharks feed on algae, biofilm, and small microorganisms in the wild. In captivity, they accept:
    • High-quality sinking pellets or flakes (preferably with spirulina)
    • Live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, or tubifex
    • Blanched vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or peas
  • Feeding Tips: Feed small amounts 2-3 times daily to avoid overfeeding and tank bloat. A varied diet ensures vibrant coloration and health.

  Compatibility:

  • Tank Mates: Compatible with robust, peaceful to semi-aggressive fish that occupy the upper and middle tank levels, such as:
    • Barbs, Rainbowfish, Danios, Rasboras, Gouramis
    • Larger freshwater shrimp (e.g., Amano, Vampire Shrimp), though fry or eggs may be eaten
    • Bottom-dwellers like Plecos or Loaches, if the tank is large enough
  • Avoid: Other bottom-dwellers (e.g., Cichlids, most Catfish), fin-nippers, or timid fish, as the Albino Rainbow Shark may harass them. Avoid housing with similar-looking species to prevent territorial conflicts.
  • Introduction: Add the Albino Rainbow Shark as the last fish to the tank to reduce territorial behavior.

  Care Level and Lifespan:

  • Care Level: Intermediate, due to their territorial behavior and specific water quality needs. Not recommended for beginners.
  • Lifespan: Averages 4-6 years in captivity, with some living up to 8 years with proper care.

  Breeding:

  • Breeding in captivity is challenging and rarely documented. They are egg-layers, but the territorial nature of adults complicates reproduction in aquariums. Most specimens in the trade are farm-raised.

  Additional Notes:

  • Jumping Risk: Albino Rainbow Sharks are known jumpers, so a secure tank lid is essential.
  • Variants: Besides the albino form, Rainbow Sharks have other variants, such as the standard (dark blue/black body) and GloFish (genetically modified to fluoresce under UV light).
  • Availability: Widely available in the aquarium trade due to long-term importation and breeding.