LARGE Bala Shark (5-5.5”)

Scientific Name: Balantiocheilos melanopterus

Maximum Size and Lifespan:
Bala sharks can grow quite large in captivity, reaching up to 12–14 inches (30–35 cm) in length. With proper care, they can live 8–10 years, sometimes longer in spacious, well-maintained aquariums.

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Change, and Care:

• Tank Size: Minimum 125 gallons (475 liters) for a small group, as these are highly active schooling fish. 180 gallon plus is prefered for a group or community setup

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

  • pH: 6.5–7.5

  • Water Changes: Perform 25–30% weekly water changes to maintain water quality, as Bala sharks are sensitive to poor water conditions.

• Care: Bala sharks are generally hardy but require pristine water, ample swimming room, and secure lids (they are powerful jumpers).

Tankmates:
They are peaceful, schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least 4–6 individuals to avoid stress. Suitable tankmates include:

• Large peaceful community fish (Silver Dollars, Clown Loaches, Gouramis, Tinfoil Barbs).

• Avoid fin-nippers and overly aggressive species (like large Cichlids).

• Avoid very small fish that can be mistaken for food (Neon Tetras, Guppies).

Diet:
Bala sharks are omnivores with a strong appetite. A balanced diet should include:

• High-quality flakes or pellets (as a staple).

• Frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp

• Vegetable matter:,zucchini and spirulina-based foods.
  Feeding 2–3 small meals per day is recommended.

Overview:
Bala sharks are striking, silver-bodied fish with black-edged fins, admired for their sleek appearance and active schooling behavior. Despite their common name, they are not true sharks but cyprinids (related to barbs and minnows). Their fast swimming and social habits require very large tanks, which often surprises beginner aquarists.

Natural Environment:
In the wild, Bala sharks are found in rivers, lakes, and floodplains of Southeast Asia (Thailand, Borneo, Sumatra, and the Mekong Basin). They prefer clear to slightly turbid waters with moderate current and plenty of open swimming areas. Sadly, they are considered vulnerable in the wild due to habitat loss and overfishing.

Breeding:
Captive breeding is extremely rare in home aquariums because they require very large spaces and specific conditions. Commercial breeding is typically done in large ponds or through hormone-induced spawning. They are egg scatterers, with adults showing little to no parental care.