The Silver Shark (Balantiocheilos melanopterus), also known as the Bala Shark, is a popular freshwater fish in the aquarium trade. Despite its name, it is not a true shark but gets its name from its torpedo-shaped body and large fins.
General Information:
• Maximum Size: Can grow up to 14–16 inches (35–40 cm) in captivity, though wild specimens may reach slightly larger sizes.
• Native From: Found in the rivers and freshwater bodies of Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Borneo, and Sumatra.
• Growth Rate: Moderately fast-growing; can reach about 6 inches (15 cm) within a year under good conditions.
• Lifespan: Typically lives for 8–10 years, though some may reach 12 years with proper care.
• Diet: Omnivorous—feeds on a mix of plant matter, insects, crustaceans, and small fish in the wild. In captivity, they eat pellets, flakes, live/frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp), and vegetables.
• Breeding Season: Very difficult to breed in captivity; in the wild, they spawn seasonally in large rivers. Most available Bala Sharks are commercially bred using hormone-induced spawning.
• Best Tank Mates:
• Peaceful but active schooling fish that need to be kept in groups of at least 4–6 to prevent stress.
• Suitable tank mates include other large, peaceful species like Giant Danios, Rainbowfish, Tinfoil Barbs, Plecos, and larger Gouramis.
• Avoid keeping them with small fish (like Neon Tetras) as they might be mistaken for food, and aggressive fish (like Cichlids) that could bully them.
Additional Notes:
• Bala Sharks need a large tank (minimum 125 gallons) due to their active swimming nature.
• They prefer well-oxygenated water with a moderate current and stable water parameters.
• They are not suited for small home aquariums due to their size and activity level.
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