Red-fin Shark, Rainbow Shark, Ruby Shark Epalzeorhynchus frenatus | PicturesSynonyms:
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.
