Our Guide To Keeping Rainbow Shiner Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Notropis chrosomus
   • Common name: Rainbow Shiner
   • Family: Cyprinidae
   • Origin: Eastern United States
   • Adult length: 5 to 8 cm
   • Lifespan: 3 to 5 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Rainbow Shiners require a tank with ample swimming space and a well-oxygenated environment. A tank size of at least 75L is recommended for a small group of these fish.
   • Decorate the tank with smooth gravel substrate and provide plenty of hiding places among rocks, driftwood, and artificial plants.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Rainbow Shiners thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
   • Maintain the water temperature between 18 to 24°C (65 to 75°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Ensure efficient filtration to maintain water quality, and provide gentle to moderate water flow to mimic their natural habitat.

5. Diet:

   • Rainbow Shiners are omnivores and will readily accept a varied diet. Offer them high-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
   • Feed them multiple small meals throughout the day to accommodate their high metabolism.

6. Tank mates:

   • Rainbow Shiners are peaceful and sociable fish that thrive in the company of their own species and other small, peaceful community fish.
   • They can be kept with other similarly sized fish such as tetras, rasboras, danios, and small catfish species.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Rainbow Shiners are active and playful swimmers, especially in a group setting.
   • They should not be housed with aggressive or territorial fish species that may stress or bully them.