Rainbow Shark
Pickup available at Napier
Usually ready in 4 hours
Shipping & Returns
All live fish are shipped using NZPost overnight services with authority to leave (no signature).
We cannot guarantee the overnight services, this is a service that we/you pay for; but is not guaranteed.
We DO NOT offer returns on any alive animal.
Above are key points of our policy, Click Here to read our full shipping policy.
Dead On Arrival (DOA) Cover*
- DOA must be reported within 2 hours of delivery.
- Bags must remain sealed (do not remove rubber band or tape)
- Photos & Videos must be supplied this can be emailed or sent through live chat; including your order No. (minimum 3 clear images, showing dead fish & sealed bag)
- DOA does not apply once the bags are opened & fish have been released.
- DOA does not apply to any Rural (RD) address.
Introducing New Fish
Follow these steps to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new fish!
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Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the new fish in the tank. This equalizes the temperature between bag and tank water.
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Open and Add Tank Water Gradually: After about 5 minutes, open the bag and add a small amount of aquarium water into it every 5 minutes for 15–30 minutes. This helps the fish acclimate to the tank’s water chemistry.
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Wait 15–30 Minutes: Let the fish adjust to the water temperature and chemistry gradually in the bag.
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Release Fish: Gently release the fish into the tank without pouring the original bag water in.
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The Rainbow Shark is a bold and active freshwater fish recognised for its dark body and striking red fins. Despite its name, it is not a true shark, but its streamlined shape and territorial nature give it a strong presence in the aquarium.
Rainbow Sharks are best suited to larger, well-structured tanks where they can establish territories without constant conflict. When housed correctly, they are hardy, long-lived, and make an impressive feature fish for semi-aggressive freshwater setups.
Physical Characteristics:
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Adult Size: 12–15 cm
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Body Shape: Streamlined, shark-like profile
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Colouration: Dark grey to black body with vivid red fins
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Sexual Dimorphism: Minimal; females may appear slightly fuller-bodied
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Lifespan: 5–8 years
Behaviour & Temperament:
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Temperament: Semi-aggressive
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Swimming Level: Bottom to mid levels
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Territorial Behaviour: Strong, especially toward similar-shaped fish
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Social Behaviour: Best kept singly
Rainbow Sharks become increasingly territorial as they mature and should not be housed with other sharks or similar bottom-dwelling species.
Aquarium Requirements:
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Minimum Tank Size: 120 litres
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Water Temperature: 22–28°C
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pH Range: 6.5–7.5
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Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH
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Water Flow: Moderate
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Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
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Aquascape: Driftwood, rocks, caves, and broken sight lines
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Tank Cover: Recommended
Feeding:
Rainbow Sharks are omnivorous and require a varied diet:
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Sinking pellets or wafers
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Algae wafers
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Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)
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Frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp)
Feed once daily and avoid overfeeding.
Compatibility:
Suitable Tank Mates:
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Large tetras
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Rainbowfish
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Barbs (non fin-nipping species)
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Gouramis
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Fast mid-to-upper level fish
Avoid Housing With:
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Other sharks or loaches
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Corydoras and other bottom dwellers
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Slow or long-finned fish
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Small, timid community species
Breeding:
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Breeding in Captivity: Extremely rare
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Commercial Breeding: Hormone-assisted
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Notes: Not suitable for home breeding
Special Considerations:
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Must be kept singly
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Territorial behaviour increases with age
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Requires space and hiding areas to reduce aggression
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Not suitable for small or peaceful community aquariums
***Photos for reference only*** If you like updated photo please contact us and we will send you photos/video of actual fish that you are purchasing.
