The Rainbow Shiner can be found in diverse temperate areas with fast-moving water, such as small rivers, springs, clear streams, creeks, and riffles.
This species is peaceful when kept in shoals of 6 or more. The ideal tank for these fish is spacious, mature, and well-filtered. They require plenty of hiding places like rocks, bogwood, and sturdy plants, as well as a decent current from additional powerheads. Higher water temperatures mean higher oxygenation needs.
Rainbow Shiners tend to dwell in the middle to top of the tank, making them compatible with other small, peaceful fish that thrive in fast-moving water. Suitable tankmates may include certain torpedo-shaped loaches (such as Schistura, Nemacheilus, and Mesonoemacheilus), sub-tropical botiid loaches (like Sinibotia pulchra and Ambastaia nigrolineata), and Weather loaches (Misgurnus anguillicaud
