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Freshwater fishBala Shark
Bala Shark
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The bala shark, or minnow shark, is one of the most popular schooling fish for aquariums. These freshwater sharks are great in community tanks when small but will grow to 12 inches in about two years, and then these freshwater sharks are great for larger species tanks. Shipping size is about 2 inches to 3 inches. We recommend a school of three to six.
Like most shark fish, bala sharks are hardy at two inches but weak (though very cheap!) at smaller sizes.
These sharks tend to be less hardy under two inches, so we do our best to import the proper size.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Balantiocheilos melanopterus |
| Origin | Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra and Borneo (farm-raised) |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful but very active |
| Adult Size | Up to 12–14" |
| Lifespan | 10+ years |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Water Temperature | 72–80°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| Group Size | Does best in a group |
| Shipping Size | Small: 1½" · Medium: 2–3" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: These are fast, schooling fish that grow large, so give them plenty of open swimming space, strong filtration and a heavy, tight-fitting lid, since they jump.
Feeding: Feed a quality flake or pellet once or twice a day. They also enjoy frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Tankmates: Keep them with other large, peaceful to semi-aggressive fish such as silver dollars, tinfoil barbs, larger gouramis, plecos and peaceful cichlids. They will eat very small fish once they are large.
Good to know: These "sharks" are members of the carp family, not true sharks. They grow quickly, so check their adult size before buying.
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