Description

Albino Tiger Shark

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Epalzeorhynchos bicolor (Albino variant of the Tiger Shark / Albino Rainbow Shark)

• Common Names: Albino Tiger Shark, Albino Rainbow Shark, Albino Freshwater Shark

• Family: Cyprinidae (Carp Family)

• Order: Cypriniformes

• Origin: Southeast Asia — Thailand, Cambodia, and surrounding freshwater rivers

• Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm) in captivity

• Lifespan: 8 – 10 years

• Tank Zone: Mid to bottom dweller

🌊 Water Parameters

• TDS: 100 – 250 ppm

• pH: 6.5 – 7.5

• Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)

• Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

• Body: Streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with long fins.

• Coloration: Albino white body with faint yellow undertones; bright red or orange fins.

• Fins: Dorsal fin is large and pointed; caudal and anal fins long and flowing.

• Behavior: Semi-aggressive; establishes territory in the tank.

• Nature: Active swimmer; mostly daytime activity.

• Special Feature: Albino variant has reduced pigment, making it visually striking in well-lit aquariums.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Omnivorous

• Diet: Sinking pellets, flakes, live/frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and occasional vegetables like blanched zucchini or spinach.

• Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily.

• Tip: Provide protein-rich foods to maintain fin color and health.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 150 liters (40 gallons) for a single adult.

• Filtration: Strong filtration with good oxygenation; sensitive to poor water quality.

• Substrate: Smooth sand or fine gravel to protect barbels.

• Decor: Driftwood, rocks, and hiding spots; open swimming space is essential.

• Lighting: Moderate; albino fish prefer slightly shaded areas.

• Water Change: 20–25% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

• Group Size: Best kept singly or in groups with careful monitoring.

• Tank Mates: Larger peaceful community fish like gouramis, barbs, and tetras.

• Avoid: Small fish, slow-moving species, or other aggressive tank mates.

• Compatibility Note: Territorial with its own kind; may chase smaller fish.

✅ Do’s

• Provide open swimming areas and hiding spots.

• Maintain high water quality and stable parameters.

• Feed a varied diet including protein and vegetables.

• Monitor for territorial behavior.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t overcrowd the tank.

• Don’t keep with very small or delicate species.

• Don’t use sharp decorations that could damage fins.

⭐ Quick Tips
The Albino Tiger Shark is a visually striking freshwater centerpiece fish. Its flowing fins and bright albino coloration make it a favorite among aquarists who want an active, semi-aggressive, and unique fish in their community tanks.