Family: Cyprinidae
Distribution: Displaying a penchant for sandy-bottomed water, Epalzeorhynchos munense are common to the Asian flood plains in Thailand and Indonesia.
PH: 6.5 – 7.0 pH
Temperature: 23 – 28°C (74 – 82°F)
Hardness: 2 – 15 dH
Description: Epalzeorhynchos munense have a black or dark grey body with red or orange fins. They are almost identical relatives of Epalzeorhynchos frenatum. The two species can be differentiated through their dorsal and pelvic fins: the red fin shark’s dorsal will start ahead of the pelvic, whilst the rainbow shark’s will be even. The red fin shark will also have black lines on their rear fins.
The male Epalzeorhynchos munense are characterised through their slimmer body and black lines on their anal fins. Like their Epalzeorhynchos relatives, they are territorial and particularly aggressive even towards their own species. They require plenty of hiding spaces (plants, wood, rock).
They will grow to a maximum of 15cm and thus require a large tank.
Diet: A varied diet of livefood, flakes and fresh vegetables is recommended for the red fin shark; although they are primarily herbivores.
Breeding: Breeding is highly unlikely in captivity due to their aggressiveness towards their own species.
Comments: The aggressiveness of this fish makes it better for aquarist with intermediate or expert experience.
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Recommended Compatible Species: Larger fish with small mouths make good tank mates, such as large gouramis, most barbs (e.g. tiger or tin foil), danios and catfishes (e.g. Corydoras and Plecos).
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