Bala Shark Care Guide
Balantiocheilos melanopterus
Stocking Calculator
Bioload Score
24200
PeacefulModerateFreshwater
- Max Size
- 35.0 cm / 14.0"
- Temperature
- 22–28°C (72–82°F)
- pH Range
- 6.5 – 7.5
- Min Tank Size
- 300L (79 gal)
- Min Group Size
- 5 fish
- Tank Level
- Bottom-Mid
- Origin
- Southeast Asia
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Breeding Difficulty
- Difficult
Diet
Omnivorous. They primarily feed on small invertebrates, algae, and plant matter. Provide a balanced diet consisting of high-quality pellets, flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Community Compatibility
Bala Sharks can be kept with other large, peaceful fish such as barbs, tetras, gouramis, and other non-aggressive species that are too large to be considered prey. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species.
Good to Know
Bala Sharks can be prone to jump out of the aquarium, so ensure the tank is securely covered.
Gender Differences
Not sexually dimorphic.
Stock Bala Shark in Your Tank
Use our free stocking calculator to see if Bala Shark fits your aquarium