What is a Rainbow Shark?

Rainbow Shark is a freshwater fish species that belongs to the Cyprinidae family. They are native to Southeast Asia and are popular among aquarium enthusiasts due to their vibrant colors and easy-to-care nature. Rainbow Sharks are small in size, growing up to 6 inches long and are known for their striking red fins and black body.

A Popular Fish for Aquarium Enthusiasts

Rainbow Sharks are one of the most popular aquarium fishes among enthusiasts. They are easy to keep, have a peaceful nature, and add a vibrant touch to any aquarium. Their active nature makes them a great addition to any community tank. They are also known for their territorial behavior, so it’s best to keep them in groups of three or more to minimize aggression.

The Scientific Name of Rainbow Shark

The scientific name of Rainbow Shark is Epalzeorhynchos frenatum. It belongs to the family Cyprinidae, which also includes popular aquarium fish like Goldfish, Koi, and Tetras. The genus Epalzeorhynchos comprises only three species, and Rainbow Shark is one of them.

Taxonomy of Rainbow Sharks

Rainbow Shark belongs to the Kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, Class Actinopterygii, Order Cypriniformes, Family Cyprinidae, Genus Epalzeorhynchos, and Species frenatum.

How to Pronounce the Scientific Name

The scientific name of Rainbow Shark, Epalzeorhynchos frenatum, can be tricky to pronounce. It is pronounced as "ep-al-zee-oh-rink-ohs fren-ay-tum."

Other Names for Rainbow Shark

Rainbow Shark is also known as Red-Finned Shark, Ruby Shark, and White-Finned Shark due to the vibrant colors of its fins.

Native Habitat of Rainbow Shark

Rainbow Sharks are native to Southeast Asia, specifically Thailand and Cambodia. They prefer rivers with a rocky bottom and strong currents. They are omnivores and feed on algae, insects, and small crustaceans in the wild.

Interesting Facts About Rainbow Shark

• Rainbow Sharks can live up to five years in captivity.
• They are named after their triangular dorsal fin, which resembles a shark’s fin.
• Rainbow Sharks do not have actual teeth. Instead, they have modified throat teeth that they use to grind their food.
• They are known for their ability to jump out of the water, so it’s essential to have a secure lid on their aquarium.