If you’re looking for something small and easy to keep, try a rainbow shark. They grow to about 6 inches long and work well in planted tanks.
Keep in mind they require a smooth or sandy substrate to protect the delicate barbels around their mouths.
Another option is a red tail shark. They also grow to about 6 inches long but are more aggressive and a little more difficult to house in a community tank.
If size is a concern, be sure to avoid an iridescent shark at all costs. While they look small in the pet store, they can grow tremendously large and are not a good fit for everyone.
How to Setup a Shark Aquarium?
When you decide which freshwater shark you prefer, be sure to research the specific requirements you need for the aquarium.
That said, there are some basic things that most of these freshwater sharks have in common when it comes to their environment.
Tank Size and Environment
One of the most important things to consider when it comes to a shark aquarium is size. These are big fish – in some cases, very big fish – and you will need a tank that’s at least 100 gallons. If you choose a larger variety, you could be looking at a 300-gallon tank.
Although you should research the specific shark you’re keeping, most varieties prefer heavily planted tanks with a lot of places to hide.
Most varieties of freshwater shark originate in large rivers in Central America, South America, and Southeast Asia and you should aim to recreate that environment.
Artificial plants will do but live ones are better. Be sure to add a lot of rocks, wood, and caves along the bottom of the tank where they can hide and establish their own territory.
Part of an aquarium set up is the other fish in the community and it’s worth mentioning again that freshwater sharks should only be kept with fish that are too large to eat and have an even temperament.
