Bala Shark
Image: Alia 2005 (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameBala Shark
Scientific NameBalantiocheilos melanopterus
Common NamesBala Shark, Silver 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 SpeciesLarge Tetras, Rainbowfish, Gouramis, Large Barbs, Plecos, Other large, peaceful community fish
Description
The Bala Shark is a large, active, schooling freshwater fish known for its shark-like appearance with a silver body and black-edged fins. Despite its name, it is a minnow, not a true shark. They are peaceful but require very large aquariums due to their significant adult size and need to be kept in groups.
