Bala Shark
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Gogo78&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="User:Gogo78 (page does not exist)">Gogo78</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameBala Shark
Scientific NameBalantiocheilos melanopterus
Common NamesBala Shark, Silver Shark, Tri-color Shark Minnow
FamilyCyprinidae
OriginSoutheast Asia, Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo
Temperamentcommunity
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)125
Max Size (Inches)14
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range6.0-8.0
Compatible SpeciesLarger Gouramis, Rainbowfish, Congo Tetras, Loaches, Larger Barbs, Angelfish, Discus
Description
The Bala Shark is a large, active, and peaceful schooling fish known for its sleek silver body and distinctive black-edged fins. Despite its common name, it is a member of the carp family, not a true shark. They require very large aquariums and thrive best in groups of five or more.
