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Freshwater fishRainbow Shiner
Rainbow Shiner
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A stunning multicolored fish native to America, the rainbow shiner is becoming a popular aquarium fish and does not require a heater, since the shiner fish can tolerate colder temperatures. Rainbow shiners do well in ponds and aquariums where the temperature does not get above 80 degrees. Hardy schooling fish, rainbow shiners will eat flake and pellet food.
Note: Since we carry juvenile fish, their adult colors will take some time to develop.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Notropis chrosomus (see note) |
| Origin | Southeastern United States (Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee) |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful but very active |
| Adult Size | Up to 3" |
| Lifespan | 3–4 years |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Water Temperature | 55–75°F (cool water; no heater needed) |
| pH | 6.5–7.8 |
| Group Size | Does best in a group |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 1" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Rainbow shiners are active, cool-water stream fish. Give them a sand or gravel bottom, smooth rocks, some current and strong aeration. Keep the water below about 75°F and keep a lid on the tank.
Feeding: Feed a quality flake or small pellet once or twice a day. They also enjoy frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Tankmates: Keep them with other peaceful, cool-water fish of similar size, such as other native minnows and darters, white clouds or danios. Avoid tropical fish that need warm water, and slow, long-finned fish.
Good to know: In spring breeding season, males turn bright pink and blue, which is where the "rainbow" name comes from.
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