Aquaria
Bala Shark

Bala Shark

Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108103612" class="extiw" title="d:Q108103612"><span title="Wikipedian and OpenStreetMap mapper from Cologne, Open Data activist">Raimond Spekking</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 4.0)

NameBala Shark
Scientific NameBalantiocheilos melanopterus
Common NamesBala Shark, Silver Shark, Tri-color Shark, Shark Minnow
FamilyCyprinidae
OriginSoutheast Asia, Malay Peninsula, 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 SpeciesClown Loach, Rainbowfish, Larger Gouramis, Severum Cichlid, Geophagus Cichlid, Tinfoil Barb, Denison Barb

Description

Bala Sharks are large, active freshwater fish known for their shark-like appearance and peaceful nature. They are schooling fish that require very large tanks due to their adult size and active swimming habits, making them suitable for experienced aquarists. Their striking silver bodies and black-edged fins make them a popular, albeit demanding, aquarium inhabitant.

Related Fish species