Epalzeorhynchus frenatus Albino 4.5–6 cm (Epalzeorhynchus frenatus), commonly known as the albino rainbow shark, is a territorial mid–bottom dwelling fish from South-East Asia. The albino variety shows a creamy white body with bright red-orange fins. At 4.5–6 cm these are juveniles; as adults they reach about 12–15 cm. They belong to our freshwater range and are suitable for spacious, well-equipped tanks with plenty of hiding places.

Behavior and care

Epalzeorhynchus frenatus is territorial, especially towards conspecifics and similarly shaped or coloured fish (other “shark” type cyprinids). In most home aquariums it is best kept as a single specimen per tank, particularly in medium-sized setups.

For an adult we recommend at least 200 litres in a long tank with strong filtration and a highly structured layout. Provide many visual barriers with wood, rocks and dense planting to limit chasing. Use starter bacteria when cycling the tank and monitor parameters with our water tests. Suitable tankmates are medium-sized, active but non-aggressive schooling fish occupying mainly the mid and upper levels.

Diet

In nature this species grazes on algae, biofilm and small invertebrates (aufwuchs/omnivorous). In the aquarium, offer a staple diet of sinking pellets and vegetable-based wafers (spirulina, algae), supplemented with some protein-rich foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae or other frozen foods.

Vary the diet using our specialised foods and feed one or two small meals per day. Avoid overfeeding – this is a very active forager that does better with modest portions.

Water parameters

• Ideal temperature: 23 – 27 °C
• pH: 6.5 – 7.5
• GH: 5 – 15 °dGH
• KH: 3 – 10 °dKH
• Conductivity: 150 – 500 µS

The albino rainbow shark prefers clean, well-oxygenated and stable water. Before adding the fish, treat tap water with an appropriate water conditioner. Combine efficient filtration with regular maintenance using maintenance tools and weekly water changes. This species is sensitive to high nitrate levels and sudden changes.

Decor and environment

Create a highly structured layout with plenty of driftwood, rocks and caves and dense live planting (Cryptocoryne, Hygrophila, Microsorum, Anubias) to provide hiding spots and territories. A fine or rounded aquarium substrate works very well.

A suitable lighting system will highlight the contrast between the pale body and the bright red fins, especially over a dark substrate and background.

Care sheet

AquaBota tip

For a thriving Epalzeorhynchus frenatus Albino, combine a single specimen per tank with a complex, structured layout and excellent water quality.
Stability = success: monitor pH, hardness and nitrate with our water tests and adjust your water change routine accordingly.

Shipping and delivery of live fish

Fish are shipped with great care in insulated, purpose-designed packaging to ensure their safety during transport.

Delivery methods

• France Express (secure home delivery in France, Belgium and Luxembourg)
• In-store pickup in Sombreffe (Belgium)

Shipping schedule

• Order cut-off: every Monday at 10:00.
• France: shipments on Monday or Tuesday, depending on the destination department, for delivery between Tuesday and Thursday.
• Belgium and Luxembourg: shipments on Monday and Tuesday for delivery between Tuesday and Wednesday.