Rainbow shiner

The rainbow shiner is a stunning cool-water schooling fish from the southeastern United States, where it inhabits fast-flowing, well-oxygenated streams and rivers. Males develop spectacular iridescent colours of metallic purple, blue, and pink during the breeding season, making it one of the most attractive North American native species for the aquarium. Adults reach approximately 8 cm in length.

As a schooling species, it should be maintained in groups of at least 8-10 individuals, where males will display their best colours while competing for female attention. A minimum tank size of 75 litres (20 gallons) with moderate to strong water flow is essential — these fish come from moving waters and thrive with good oxygenation. A secure lid is mandatory, as they are active, fast swimmers and accomplished jumpers. The tank should include smooth gravel, rocks, driftwood, and hardy plants.

Being a cool-water species, the rainbow shiner does best at 10-22°C and often does not require a heater in most indoor homes. The pH range is 6.5-7.5 with moderate hardness. Diet consists of quality dried flakes and pellets supplemented with live and frozen foods such as Daphnia, bloodworms, and brine shrimp. They are peaceful and mix well with other cool-water species such as white cloud mountain minnows, danios, and hillstream loaches.