Is a rainbow shark suitable for 200L?

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Dakoro
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:35 pm

Is a rainbow shark suitable for 200L?

Post by Dakoro »

I'm considering adding a rainbow shark to my 200L community tank. The tank has a sand substrate, plenty of driftwood, and some hardy plants like Java fern and Anubias. Current inhabitants are tetras, Corydoras, and a pair of angelfish. Will the rainbow shark be too aggressive or outgrow this setup?
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natureview
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Re: Is a rainbow shark suitable for 200L?

Post by natureview »

Rainbow sharks can get pretty territorial, especially as they grow. They might mess with your Corydoras or even the angelfish if they feel cramped. A 200L is decent, but it's gonna depend on how much hiding spots you've got.
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Lunasa
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Re: Is a rainbow shark suitable for 200L?

Post by Lunasa »

natureview wrote: Sun Jun 22, 2025 3:38 am Rainbow sharks can get pretty territorial, especially as they grow. They might mess with your Corydoras or even the angelfish if they feel cramped. A 200L is decent, but it's gonna depend on how much hiding spots you've got.
I agree. Rainbow sharks need space to claim their territory. If your tank is well-structured with caves and plants, it might work, but keep an eye on aggression. They can reach up to 15cm, so 200L is the bare minimum.
Ridgeon
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Re: Is a rainbow shark suitable for 200L?

Post by Ridgeon »

I've kept a rainbow shark in a 200L before. It was fine with tetras but did chase my gouramis occasionally. If you're gonna try it, make sure there's enough visual barriers to break line of sight.
dawnsage
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Re: Is a rainbow shark suitable for 200L?

Post by dawnsage »

Yeah, rainbow sharks are kinda sketchy with tankmates. They're cool fish but can turn into bullies real quick. Maybe consider a smaller, less aggressive species if you're worried about harmony.
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_bloomer
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Re: Is a rainbow shark suitable for 200L?

Post by _bloomer »

dawnsage wrote: Sun Jun 22, 2025 4:55 am Yeah, rainbow sharks are kinda sketchy with tankmates. They're cool fish but can turn into bullies real quick. Maybe consider a smaller, less aggressive species if you're worried about harmony.
I'd second that. If you're set on a rainbow shark, maybe rehome the angelfish first. They're both semi-aggressive and might clash.
ravens
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Re: Is a rainbow shark suitable for 200L?

Post by ravens »

Rainbow sharks are dope but they need room to roam. A 200L is cutting it close, especially with other fish. If you're gonna add one, do it last so it doesn't claim the whole tank.
Dakoro
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:35 pm

Re: Is a rainbow shark suitable for 200L?

Post by Dakoro »

Thanks for the input, everyone. I'll rethink the rainbow shark and maybe look into a smaller bottom-dweller instead.
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