Rainbow Sharks

**ryann** · 02-15-2013, 01:16 PM

In addition to what was mentioned above (all good advice) the loach needs to be in a school as well. Depending what kind it is it could get too big for your tank. I would definitely recommend getting rid of one of the sharks. The pleco will also create a lot of waste and if it is a common pleco it will get over a foot long so it will outgrow your tank.

**imma24** · 02-15-2013, 01:22 PM

Originally Posted by talldutchie

2. A "pleco" is what American fish stores stick on any of the 1200 fish of the Loricariidae family. It is most often used to mean Hypostomus plecostomus which grows out at 10-12 inch long. Not suited for a 30 gallon.
3. A mbuna needs hard alkaline water, the rest need soft water
4. I had to google blue skirt tetra. Apparently it's a dyed version of Gymnocorymbus ternetzi. If that's the case I am really curious why you'd buy a dyed fish. Anyway, it's a schooling species, needs company.
5. Tiger barbs also need company.

So.. my advice would be start by going onto ebay and ordering a liquid test kit and see of you can lose one of the sharks.

I will agree with lots of the above post - I would personally recommend getting rid of both sharks as one will become too aggressive eventually and could start up with other fish. I would also look to get rid of the barbs - forum members usually recommend a barb only tank due to their aggression (unless it's cherry barbs) and I agree to increase the skirts.

It's very important to know as stated above that most pet store employees are looking to make sales & many don't have their own tanks or know enough about fish to advise on compatibility, potential size, etc.

**talldutchie** · 02-15-2013, 02:12 PM

Valid points Andrea. I was aiming for quick wins and not everything at once. Afraid i'd really scare OP.

**LeoJason** · 02-15-2013, 04:22 PM

As far as your curiosity about my blue tetras; I fell in love when I saw them, asked questions, and was never told they were dyed. After I brought them home I found out they were a dyed fish through my own research. I am not going to return them just because I disagree with their treatment, but I am not going to purchase more of that type.
As far as the rest, I will do what I can. Thank you.