Bala Shark
Balantiocheilos melanopterus
The Bala shark is a large, active cyprinid native to Southeast Asia, prized for its elegant silver body and black and red-orange edged fins. Despite its nickname, it is not a true shark but a shoaling fish that reaches 35 cm in aquariums (up to 40 cm in the wild). It requires a very large tank with plenty of open swimming space.
Parameters
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Min volume
- 600 L
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C
- pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Hardness (GH)
- 5–12 °GH
- Carbonate hardness (KH)
- 4–10 °KH
- Adult size
- 35 cm
- Lifespan
- 10 years
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Temperament
- Paisible mais actif
- Difficulty
- Intermédiaire
Environment
Minimum volume 600 litres for a group of 5-6 individuals (800-1000 L aquarium recommended for adults). Powerful swimmer requiring a long tank (minimum 200 cm) with large open swimming area. Very efficient filtration essential as it produces significant waste. Provide tight-fitting lid: excellent jumper. Décor: some driftwood, rocks and robust plants around the perimeter (Anubias, Microsorum), moderate lighting. Well-oxygenated water with moderate current. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-12°dGH.
Feeding
Omnivore with herbivorous tendency. Feed quality flakes/pellets for omnivorous fish, supplement 2-3 times/week with blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, shelled peas), bloodworms, brine shrimp, krill. Also accepts spirulina and vegetable foods. Feed twice daily in small quantities. Monitor weight: tendency towards obesity.
Health & common diseases
Hardy species but sensitive to water quality. Common diseases: white spot (Ichthyophthirius) triggered by stress and temperature fluctuations — symptoms: small white spots, rubbing against décor; prevention through stable temperature and regular water changes (25-30%/week). Fin rot (bacterial infection) if water quality deteriorates — frayed edges, cloudiness; prevent through impeccable hygiene. Fungal infections possible after injuries (jumping, collision). Very sensitive to stress during handling and introduction: slow acclimation essential. Vulnerable to high nitrites and nitrates.
Tips & tankmates
Shoaling fish MUST be kept in groups of minimum 5 individuals; alone or in pairs, becomes stressed and aggressive. Beware of adult size often underestimated: many abandonments as sold young (5-8 cm). Compatible with large peaceful fish (large Barbus, large peaceful American cichlids, large loricariids, Botia). Avoid small fish (predation risk) and slow-moving species with flowing fins. Threatened species in the wild (IUCN status: Endangered): prioritize certified captive-bred individuals. Think carefully before purchase: long-term commitment requiring suitable infrastructure.
Sources
- Seriously Fish - Balantiocheilos melanopterus
- FishBase - Balantiocheilos melanopterus
- IUCN Red List - Balantiocheilos melanopterus
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