Red-Finned Shark Albin (Labeo frenatus (albino color morph)) — 3-4cm

Overview

Albino Red-Finned Shark (Labeo frenatus albino color morph) is a striking albino variant of the popular Red-Finned Shark, renowned for its vivid coloration, active behavior, and sleek profile. Native to Thailand and mainland Southeast Asia, especially river systems of the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins, this species adds movement and visual interest to larger freshwater aquariums. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this eye-catching algae grazer is ideal for the spacious community aquarium keeper seeking a bold, active centerpiece fish.

Appearance

The Albino Red-Finned Shark typically reaches around 22 cm in total length at maturity, making it a medium to large cyprinid. The body is elongated and streamlined, with a pale cream or pinkish-white base color due to the albino mutation. The fins are bright red or orange, providing a vivid contrast against the pale body. The eyes are pink or red, a characteristic feature of albino fish. Healthy specimens have smooth, unblemished scales and bright, clear eyes.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, the standard Labeo frenatus inhabits fast-flowing rivers and streams in Thailand and mainland Southeast Asia, especially in the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins. These waters are well-oxygenated, with rocky or gravelly substrates and moderate to strong currents. The fish are primarily algae and periphyton grazers, feeding on biofilm and aufwuchs growing on submerged rocks and wood. During the dry season, water levels drop and fish concentrate in deeper pools.

Aquarium Setup

A spacious aquarium of at least 300 litres is essential for the Albino Red-Finned Shark, as it is an active swimmer and can become territorial as it matures. Use a fine gravel or sand substrate and incorporate smooth rocks, driftwood, and robust live plants or artificial plants to provide visual interest and hiding places. Ensure good filtration and moderate water movement to replicate the well-oxygenated rivers of their natural habitat. A secure lid is essential, as active cyprinids can jump when startled or during territorial disputes.

Feeding

The Albino Red-Finned Shark is primarily an omnivorous algae and periphyton grazer. Offer algae wafers, spirulina-based foods, and blanched vegetables such as courgette, spinach, or cucumber as staples. Supplement with occasional small live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, or brine shrimp. Feed once or twice daily, ensuring that algae-based foods form the majority of the diet to support digestive health and natural grazing behavior.

Behaviour

This species is active, bold, and can become territorial as it matures, especially in smaller aquariums. When young, it is relatively peaceful, but adult specimens may become aggressive toward other bottom-dwelling or similarly shaped fish. It is best kept as a single specimen or in a very large aquarium with plenty of hiding places and visual barriers. It occupies the lower levels of the aquarium and is most active during the day, constantly on the move and grazing on surfaces.

Tank Mates

The Albino Red-Finned Shark is suitable for a community aquarium with other robust, active fish of similar size. Good tankmates include robust peaceful community fish, danios, barbs, rainbowfish, and loaches. Avoid small fish that may be bullied or outcompeted, very slow-moving fish, long-finned fish such as fancy bettas and angelfish, other bottom-dwelling territorial fish, and similar-shaped cyprinids in cramped tanks.

Breeding

Breeding the Albino Red-Finned Shark is uncommon in home aquariums and usually requires large mature systems, excellent water quality, and seasonal conditioning. Spawning behavior is not reliably documented in captivity, and commercial breeding is typically done in large ponds or specialized facilities.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK aquatics specialist offering striking and unusual species like the Albino Red-Finned Shark direct to your door. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and dispatched with expert care to ensure it arrives in peak condition. With decades of experience, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer support, we make it easy to add bold, active species to your collection. Order online today and enjoy fast, reliable delivery across the UK.