Rainbow Shark

Labeo erythrurus closely resembles the Red-tailed Black Shark in body shape and behaviour, but has a lighter olive-grey to dark body with all fins tipped in vivid orange-red. Like its relative, it is territorial toward its own kind and similar-looking fish, and should be kept as a single specimen. In a well-decorated, spacious aquarium it becomes a bold and active centrepiece fish. An albino form is also widely available in the hobby.

Water: 22–27 °C, pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard (GH 5–15). Tank: 200 L minimum; driftwood, caves, and plants for territory delineation. Feeding: Omnivore — algae wafers, pellets, frozen foods, blanched vegetables. Behaviour: Territorial toward similar species; keep only one specimen per tank. Compatibility: Good with medium active fish; avoid other 'shark' cyprinids.