Albino rainbow shark

The albino rainbow shark (Epalzeorhynchos frenatum) is a striking, captive-bred color variant of the standard rainbow shark. Despite its common name, it is not a true shark, but rather a highly active member of the cyprinid (minnow and carp) family native to Southeast Asia. True albinos feature a creamy white to pinkish-white body, vibrant red or orange fins, and distinctive red eyes.

Quick Facts & Care Requirements

Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons for a single adult.
Adult Size: Typically grows to 5 to 6 inches (15 cm).
Lifespan: 5 to 10 years, occasionally reaching up to 12 years with excellent care.
Water Parameters: Temperature of 72–79°F (22–26°C), pH between 6.5 and 7.5, and moderate water hardness.

Behavior & Tank Mates

As juveniles, albino rainbow sharks are relatively social, but they become solitary, territorial, and semi-aggressive as they mature. They cruise the bottom layer of the tank, patrolling their territory like "security guards".

The "One-Shark" Rule: Never keep them with other rainbow sharks, red tail sharks, or similar-looking bottom-dwellers unless you have a massive tank with heavily broken lines of sight. They will fight aggressively over territory.
Ideal Tank Mates: Fast-moving, mid-to-top dwelling species make the best neighbors. Think large barbs, danios, rainbowfish, and robust tetras.
Habitat & Diet

To manage their fiery personality, provide plenty of hiding spaces using rocky caves, driftwood, and dense live plants to break up territories. They prefer fine gravel or sand substrate because they spend their days grazing along the bottom.

They are omnivorous bottom-feeders. While they love consuming algae, biofilm, and microorganisms, you should round out their diet with sinking algae wafers, high-quality pellets, frozen bloodworms, and occasional blanched vegetables (like zucchini or spinach).