Borneo Red Fin Silver Shark (Cyclocheilichthys janthochir)
A stunning, peaceful, timid larger barb species, the Borneo Red Fin Silver Shark, Cyclocheilichthys janthochir, is a somewhat of a rarity in the aquarium trade. These fish should be maintained in a group of at least six or more individuals in a decent-sized aquarium (300 Liters/65 Gallons) in a community aquarium, along with other peaceful fish of similar size and disposition.
Ideal Borneo Red Fin Silver Shark tankmates can include other Cyprinids of similur size, Loaches, larger Rasboras, and Danios, who can make suitable candidates. However, the fish will not feed if housed with boisterous or aggressive fish that can intimidate them.
A soft sandy substrate, driftwood, and dense planting (natural or artificial) provide the perfect environment for Borneo Red Fin Sharks to thrive. We have found that these fish do well in hard and soft water conditions. You should avoid placing sharp decor in your aquarium, such as dragon stone, as this could cause them injury when they run for shelter and often do. In addition, reducing the amount of light in the aquarium with floating plants will also help reduce anxiety. The fish will also appreciate ample swimming space along the front of the aquarium.
As these fish are skittish and easily spooked, it would be best to place the aquarium in a quiet area. Finally, please provide them with shaded hiding spots and tight-fitting lids to prevent them from accidentally jumping out.
The Borneo Red Fin Silver Shark has a silvery torpedo-shaped body and reddish-orange dorsal and caudal fins. A thin black stripe runs from their nose to the base of their caudal fin on their pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins.
Borneo Red Fin Silver Shark (Cyclocheilichthys janthochir) Video
Borneo Red Fin Silver Shark Cyclocheilichthys janthochir - Rare Barb Fish Profile & Care Guide
Photos
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cyclocheilichthys janthochir |
| Year Described | 1854 |
| Other Names | Borneo Red Fin Silver Shark, Burmese Red Fin Silver Shark, Janthochir Barb |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | Cyclocheilichthys |
| Origins | Indonesia |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Layer |
| Lifespan | 4 - 5 years |
| Water Parameters | |
|---|---|
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| PH | 4.0 - 7.0 |
| GH | 1 - 12 |
| TDS | 18 - 179 |
| Temperature | |
|---|---|
| 71 - 80℉ 21.7 - 26.7℃ | |
Feeding
In the home aquarium, the Borneo Red Fin Silver Shark will readily accept most good quality dried foods such as granules, flakes and sinking pellets. These modern food products have been developed to provide all adequate nutrition to maintain your fish's health and dietary requirements.
Providing additional foodstuffs such as live, frozen, and freeze-dried meals such as bloodworm, daphnia, and tubifex once or twice a week will provide additional benefits to your fish's health and well-being but is not a must for this fish.
It should be noted that bloodworms should only be given as an occasional treat and should not be used as the staple diet as they are difficult for fish to digest and can potentially cause blockages.
This fish is an omnivore in the wild, meaning it will consume some vegetable matter. Although most modern fish foods take this into account and include them in their products, you can still supplement your fish's diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini. Ensure you do not overfeed your fish and remove any leftovers the following day.
Tank Mates
3 interesting tank mate ideas for the Borneo Red Fin Silver Shark could include:
Sexual Dimorphism
Male and female Borneo Red Fin Silver Shark are challenging to distinguish. Females are considered thicker-bodied and slightly less colourful than males when sexually mature.