Red-Tail Shark vs. Rainbow Shark

Romance be damned...  ...so I'm back to share the differences between freshwater Red-Tail sharks and Rainbow Sharks.  Why?  Because a few customers have asked me about this and I wasn't really sure myself.

Drs. Foster and Smith have profiled both species.  The Rainbow Shark (pictured on the right) is dark gray to black with red fins (there is an albino variety as well).  It is great for the semi-aggressive community aquarium, as long as it is the sole shark and other tank mates are of similar size.

It requires a large aquarium with driftwood, rocks, and spots of dense vegetation. This shark may set up territories around the aquarium. The Rainbow Shark will become very aggressive towards its own species.

Size: Up to 6 inches   

The Red-Tail Shark (pictured on the left) has a jet black body and bright red tail. The dorsal fin is marked with a white tip.  It is an excellent choice for the semi-aggressive community aquarium, as long as it is the sole shark and the other tank mates are of similar size.

It requires a large aquarium with driftwood, rocks, and spots of dense vegetation. This shark may set up territories around the aquarium. The Redtail Black Shark will become very aggressive towards its own species when mature.

Size: Up to 4.5 inches

In other words, these are two distinct though closely related species, both belonging to the Cyprinidae (minnow) family.  Despite their similarities, they are indeed incompatible tankmates.  Both prefer to be the sole "shark" in the tank and should only be kept in small groups in very large aquariums. 

Another similarity these fish share is that both are omnivores known for not being particularly finicky eaters.  Flake food, freeze-dried bloodworms, and tubifex, as well as vegetable-based foods should be fed to both species. 

Both types are considered to be semi-aggressive fish.

And now we know.     

Comments

[Aaron]

Probably the best summary of each individual species i've found so far (even though as stated they are very similiar)! Throughout my experience however, i have found the two can be kept together! I would argue that a tank size of 6 feet or more should be used (300L +) and the rainbow shark should be substancially larger than the red tail. The tank should be heavily decorated with drift wood, plants and rocks as stated above with plenty of hiding places. Initial fights and chases are to be expected but should die down after a number of days. However if noticeable damage is inflicted remove one or the other. Any further questions email me at aaron_d.swa@hotmai.com

Aaron.