Red Fin Shark
Labeo frenatum
Description
The Red Fin Shark, also known as the Red-Finned Rainbow Shark or Red-Finned Shark, is a freshwater fish known for its striking appearance and active behavior. This species has a long, slender body with a bright, vibrant red-orange coloration on its fins, particularly the dorsal, tail, and anal fins. The body is typically a greenish to light brown or grey, which contrasts beautifully with the red fins. The head is slightly pointed, and the fish has a streamlined body built for quick swimming.
Habitat Origin
Native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, the Red Fin Shark is found in the slow-moving rivers and streams of the region. These fish typically inhabit waters with moderate flow, submerged rocks, and aquatic plants. They are accustomed to slightly acidic to neutral water and thrive in environments with plenty of oxygen and space for swimming. In the wild, they tend to live in groups, but they also exhibit territorial behavior when space is limited.
Aquarium
Ideal Number in Aquarium: Best kept singly or in pairs. If kept with other fish, ensure the tank is large enough to accommodate their territorial nature.
Favorite Food
The Red Fin Shark is omnivorous and will eat a wide variety of foods. It can be fed high-quality flake food, sinking pellets, live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and krill. It will also enjoy plant matter, so supplementing its diet with spirulina, blanched zucchini, and lettuce is beneficial. A varied diet is essential to keep the fish healthy and vibrant.
Behavior:
The Red Fin Shark is an active and curious fish that constantly swims around the tank, exploring and patrolling its territory. It is known for its aggressive and territorial behavior, particularly toward other fish of similar size or species. Males may become especially aggressive during breeding, defending their space from other males. In smaller tanks or community settings, the Red Fin Shark can become a bully, chasing and harassing tankmates, particularly if there is insufficient space or hiding spots.
Special Care:
To prevent aggression and stress, it is best to keep Red Fin Sharks in larger tanks with plenty of hiding spots and plenty of swimming space. The aquarium should be well-maintained with regular water changes and good filtration, as these fish are sensitive to poor water quality. They also appreciate having a soft, fine substrate that allows them to forage naturally. While they are hardy and adaptable, their territorial nature means that they will require a setup where they can establish their own space.
Compatibility with Other Fish:
Red Fin Sharks are best kept with other large, peaceful fish that can handle their territorial behavior. Suitable tankmates include larger cichlids, robust catfish, and other fast-swimming species. It is important to avoid keeping them with smaller, more peaceful species, as they may be harassed or bullied. In tanks with multiple Red Fin Sharks, it’s essential to provide enough space to allow each fish to establish its own territory.
Breeding Setup
A separate breeding tank is recommended for Red Fin Sharks due to their territorial nature. A 200-liter (50-gallon) tank provides enough space for breeding and reduces stress-related aggression. Maintain water parameters at a pH of 6.5–7.5, temperature of 24–28°C, and hardness between 6–12 dGH. Use a canister or high-flow internal filter to manage waste, but avoid strong currents. Substrate should be fine gravel or sand, with rock formations or caves for egg laying and territory. Though not necessary for spawning, Java moss or Anubias can provide hiding spots and stress relief. Moderate lighting (10–12 hours per day) with some shaded areas works best.
Conditioning for Breeding
To condition Red Fin Sharks, feed a protein-rich diet that includes brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and quality pellets or flakes. This enhances the health of both male and female fish, increasing the likelihood of successful breeding. Perform 20–30% water changes weekly to maintain optimal water quality. Before attempting breeding, slightly raise the temperature to 28°C to mimic natural breeding cues and encourage spawning behavior.
Spawning Process
Spawning typically occurs when both fish are well-conditioned and the environment is stable. The male will become more active and colorful, courting the female by chasing and displaying. Once she lays eggs—up to 100–500 per session—on flat surfaces like rocks or glass, the male fertilizes them. Adults must be removed immediately after egg laying, as they are likely to eat the eggs. This ensures the eggs remain undisturbed during the critical incubation period.
Fry Care & Development
The eggs hatch in 2–3 days, depending on temperature. Once hatched, the fry should be fed infusoria or liquid fry food, followed by newly hatched brine shrimp or crushed flakes after a few days. Keep the tank clean by changing 10–15% of the water every 2–3 days, and use a sponge filter to maintain water quality without risking fry suction. Maintain stable water temperature (24–28°C) and reduce water flow. Plants or small caves can offer shelter and improve fry survival.
Breeding Tips & Sexing
Red Fin Sharks typically reach breeding maturity at 1–2 years old. Males are smaller and more colorful, especially with bright red fins during breeding, while females are larger, rounder, and duller in color. To prevent stress, avoid overcrowding, maintain consistent water conditions, and remove aggressive tankmates. Creating a peaceful, stable environment will greatly improve your chances of successful breeding and fry development.