Can red tail sharks live with rainbow sharks?
Verdict
No
No. Red tail sharks and rainbow sharks should not share a tank. Two shark minnows in one tank fight over the bottom until one gives up.
What to watch
- Deal breakerTwo shark minnows in one tank fight over the bottom until one gives up.
- Watch outBoth claim territory on the bottom. Give each its own cave and plenty of floor space.
What works
- Both are fine at 72–79°F.
- pH 6.5–7.5 suits both.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Red tail shark | Rainbow shark | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79 °F | 72–80 °F |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Adult size | 5.0 in | 6.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 55 gal | 55 gal |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive | Semi-aggressive |
| Swims at | Bottom | Bottom |
| Group | One per tank | One per tank |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore |
Better tank mates for red tail sharks
Better tank mates for rainbow sharks
Questions
Can red tail sharks live with rainbow sharks?
No. Red tail sharks and rainbow sharks should not share a tank. Two shark minnows in one tank fight over the bottom until one gives up.
What temperature suits both red tail sharks and rainbow sharks?
72–79 °F. Red tail sharks need 72–79 °F, rainbow sharks need 72–80 °F.
What size tank do red tail sharks and rainbow sharks need together?
At least 55 gal, set by the red tail shark. Add space for each extra fish.