Bala Shark
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:%D0%A1%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%BF%D1%83%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B2" title="User:Сарапулов">Сарапулов</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameBala Shark
Scientific NameBalantiocheilos melanopterus
Common NamesBala Shark, Silver Bala, Silver Shark, Tri-color Shark, Shark Minnow
FamilyCyprinidae
OriginSoutheast Asia, Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo, Thailand
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 SpeciesLarge Tetras, Rainbowfish, Gouramis, Larger Barbs, Plecos, Loaches, Other large, peaceful community fish
Description
The Bala Shark is a large, active, and peaceful schooling fish known for its torpedo-shaped silver body and black-edged fins. Despite its common name, it is a member of the carp family, not a true shark. It requires a very large aquarium and should be kept in groups of at least three to thrive.
