Our Guide To Keeping Red Shiner Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Cyprinella lutrensis
   • Common name: Red Shiner
   • Family: Cyprinidae
   • Origin: North America
   • Adult length: 5 to 7 cm
   • Lifespan: 3 to 5 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Red Shiners are active swimmers, so provide a tank with plenty of open swimming space. A minimum tank size of 75L is recommended for a small group.
   • Include rocks, driftwood, and artificial plants to create hiding spots and mimic their natural environment. They appreciate a substrate with a mix of fine sand and gravel.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Maintain water conditions with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 and a temperature between 18 to 24°C (64 to 75°F).
   • Provide good filtration to keep the water clean and well-oxygenated.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Red Shiners prefer a gentle water flow, so choose a filter that provides mild to moderate circulation.

5. Diet:

   • Red Shiners are omnivores and will accept a varied diet. Offer them high-quality flake or pellet food as a primary diet, supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
   • Feed them in small portions multiple times a day to mimic their natural feeding behavior.

6. Tank mates:

   • Red Shiners are peaceful community fish and can be kept with other non-aggressive species that share similar water parameter requirements.
   • They are compatible with other small and peaceful fish such as danios, tetras, and rasboras.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Red Shiners exhibit schooling behavior, so it's advisable to keep them in groups of at least six individuals to promote natural behavior and reduce stress.
   • Avoid housing them with larger or aggressive species that may intimidate or prey on them.