Bala Shark (Balantiocheilos melanopterus)
Fish in the family Cyprinidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific nameBalantiocheilos melanopterus
FamilyCyprinidae
Also known asSilver Shark, Tricolor Shark, Tri-Color Shark Minnow
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size14 in
Minimum tank size150 gallons
Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 6.0-8.0, GH 5-18 dGH
Appearance
Streamlined silver body with large eyes and tall fins boldly edged in black and yellow; sharklike profile.
Difficulty and care for the Bala Shark
Moderate
Origin and habitat
Southeast Asia (Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo)
Keeper notes
Peaceful in temperament but very large, fast and skittish; sudden dashes can knock over decor and it will eat small fish and shrimp.
Log Bala Shark in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Bala Shark alongside everything else in your reef.
