rainbow shark
Rainbow shark
The rainbow shark is also known as the red-finned carp shark, and is called that because of its resemblance to sharks, however, it is a freshwater fish. Its scientific name is E palzeorhynchos frenatum and it is one of the species belonging to the Cyprinidae family .
Where does the rainbow shark live?
These freshwater animals are typical of the Asian continent and live specifically in the Lao People's Democratic Republic, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand.
They generally remain in watersheds, tributaries, and rivers, moving seasonally to flooded forests, marshes, and floodplains.
When they are in captivity they stay at the bottom of fish tanks, ponds or aquariums. And they become quite territorial when they reach the stage of adulthood, showing aggressive behavior with other species or specimens that want to occupy their space.
In addition, it is very important for them to have areas where they can hide and keep quiet, so the inclusion of plants, caves and objects inherent to the case is recommended.
Rainbow Shark Characteristics
The rainbow shark is quite small and, in general, it does not usually exceed 15 centimeters in length , both in the case of females and males.
In terms of physical appearance, they live up to their name, since they have various very striking colors and for that reason they are compared to the shades of the rainbow.
Something very remarkable is that there is a significant difference between males and females, because males have much brighter skin and are thinner than females.
rainbow shark life expectancy
Despite their small size, they have a significant average lifespan, as they can reach 6 to 10 years of age in captivity ; as long as they have the proper conditions and care
Is the rainbow shark in danger of extinction?
Fortunately, this fish is in the category of “ least concern” ; according to the lists that were published on the website of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, in 2012.
However, experts suspect that its population has been reduced in different areas, but with little impact.
It is important to point out that a degradation of their habitat areas has been detected, mainly due to environmental pollution; this being the main reason for the threat, after fishing for the aquarium trade.
Rainbow Shark Conservation
There are no plans to safeguard these animals , but the IUCN promotes their study and in-depth research for habitat analysis and population trends.
rainbow shark trivia
- It tends to be confused with the fish E. bicolor .
- They reproduce in captivity without any problem, and it is one of the most popular fish in aquariums.
- Everything seems to indicate that there is a sexual disintegration, caused by the lack of compatibility between females and males.
- It is more active at night than during the day.
- When they get stressed they stay quiet in places where they can hide, waiting for darkness to come to come out.
- Numerous jumps of these fish were recorded, so it is recommended that the aquarium has a cover.
- Some of the rainbow shark's DNA has been taken to create some fluorescent fish.
- It is advisable to choose very well the partners that will make life with this fish, to avoid dangerous confrontations.

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