Bala Shark
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Lerdsuwa" title="User:Lerdsuwa">Lerdsuwa</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameBala Shark
Scientific NameBalantiocheilos melanopterus
Common NamesBala Shark, Silver Shark, Tri-color Sharkminnow
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 SpeciesGiant Danios, Tinfoil Barbs, Clown Loaches, Larger Rainbowfish, Larger Gouramis, Angelfish, Severums
Description
The Bala Shark is a large, active, and peaceful freshwater fish known for its torpedo-shaped body and striking black-edged fins. Despite its common name, it is not a true shark but a member of the carp family, making it a popular, albeit challenging, addition to very large community aquariums. They are schooling fish that thrive in groups of three or more.
