Rainbow Shark

Albinos and Variants:

The 'Albino' phenotype, characterized by unmistakable red eyes and a mother-of-pearl body with pink/orange fins, is extremely popular in the trade. In terms of behavior and care, it is identical to the dark wild variant. The name "frenatus" (bridled) derives from the dark stripe that crosses the eye from the tip of the snout.

The Single Specimen Rule:

Exactly as for the Bicolor, the golden rule is intraspecific isolation. Two Rainbow Sharks in a normal aquarium will fight fiercely, chasing each other all over the tank until the weaker one dies of hardship. ALWAYS buy ONLY ONE. In nature they form hierarchies dispersed over kilometers of riverbed; in the aquarium, there is not enough space to appease the dominant.

The Fake Algae-Eater:

It is often sold to beginners as a "cleaning fish for glass algae". This is a serious mistake. Labeos scrape microorganisms and algae only from horizontal and rough surfaces (stones, logs, leaves), ignoring the smooth glass of the aquarium. Placing them in bare, new tanks will cause them to waste away and turn grey (the color fades if malnourished). They need specific Spirulina-based tablets and blanched zucchini.

Inhibitory Decor:

The aquarium must be "visually interrupted". Use twisted roots to form arches and caves. If the Frenatus has its own central cave, it will look out from there to patrol, but will leave the fish swimming above alone. If instead the aquarium is bare, it will claim the entire bottom, incessantly chasing anyone approaching the low level (never pair it with Corydoras).