RED SHINNER

Red Shiner (Cyprinella lutrensis), also known as the Red-horse Minnow, is a hardy and colorful freshwater fish native to North America. They are known for their vibrant red and silver coloration, especially during the breeding season. Red Shiners are a popular choice for native fish tanks and can be a great addition to a community aquarium. Here are some care guidelines for keeping Red Shiners:

Tank Size

• A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for a small group of Red Shiners. They are active swimmers and appreciate having enough space to move around, so a larger tank is preferable, especially if you plan to keep a larger school or mix them with other species.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Red Shiners are quite adaptable but thrive in temperatures ranging from 65-75°F (18-24°C). They can tolerate slightly higher temperatures but prefer cooler, well-oxygenated water.
• pH Level: They prefer slightly alkaline to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.5 to 8.0.
• Hardness: They can tolerate a wide range of water hardness, typically between 5-25 dGH.
• Water Quality: Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are important to maintain good water quality. These fish are tolerant of various conditions but should still be provided with clean, well-filtered water.

Diet

• Red Shiners are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods. They can be fed high-quality flake or pellet food as a staple. Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms to ensure they receive adequate nutrition. They will also nibble on algae and can benefit from plant-based foods such as spirulina flakes.