Also known as the tricolor shark or silver shark, the young bala
shark is a staple item in most aquarium stores. However, this fish is a
poor choice for most aquaria. The bala shark (the name is an
abbreviation of the scientific name) is active, grows to fourteen
inches, and prefers living in midwater shoals. So the typical community
aquarium is too small for keeping the bala shark long-term.
The bala shark is very peaceful. Even though this fish grows large,
it will not bother other fish—except those small enough to fit in its
mouth. Ideally, you should keep groups of six or more, but no less than
three.
You’ll have no problem feeding this fish. The bala shark accepts all
foods, including flakes. The fish is primarily carnivorous, but may
bother soft plants. Live, frozen, and freeze-dried foods are favorites. A
proper diet will intensify the colors in the fins, as will keeping this
fish against a dark background. White gravel or background will cause
colors to fade.
Though fish farms breed the bala shark in large numbers, do not
expect to spawn this fish in a home aquarium. Commercial breeders use
hormone injections to condition the fish and to get them to spawn.
| Scientific Name: | Balantiocheilus melanopterus |
|---|---|
| Family: | Cyprinidae |
| Size: | 14 inches |
| Temperature: | 72 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Alkalinity: | Soft to moderately hard |
| pH: | 6.0 to 8.0 |
| Origin: | Malaysia, Sumatra and Borneo |
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