Bala Shark
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Llez" title="User:Llez">H. Zell</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameBala Shark
Scientific NameBalantiocheilos melanopterus
Common NamesBala Shark, Silver Shark, Tri-color Shark, 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 SpeciesLarge Gouramis, Rainbowfish, Larger Tetras, Loaches, Dwarf Cichlids, Other large peaceful community fish
Description
The Bala Shark is a large, active, and peaceful freshwater fish known for its torpedo-shaped body and distinctive black-edged fins. Despite its 'shark' moniker, it is a member of the carp family and is not aggressive. These schooling fish require very large aquariums to thrive due to their significant adult size and active nature.
