TankHaven
Bala Shark (Balantiocheilos melanopterus)

Bala Shark

Balantiocheilos melanopterus

freshwatermedium to keepfishpeacefulswims midmay eat shrimp

Sold as 2-inch juveniles, but a school of adults needs a tank six feet long or more. Jumps when startled; keep a tight lid.

Adult size
12 in
Smallest tank
180 gal
Keep them in groups of
5+
Temperature
72–82 °F
pH · hardness
6.5–8 · 5–12 dGH
Food
Omnivore: pellets, frozen foods
Start a freshwater build to add this

Gets along with

Chili RasboraNerite SnailRamshorn SnailMalaysian Trumpet SnailAssassin SnailGhost ShrimpBetta (male)Ember Tetra

Think twice about

Cherry Shrimp — shrimp it would huntBlue Dream Shrimp — shrimp it would huntCrystal Red Shrimp — shrimp it would huntTiger Shrimp — shrimp it would hunt

Easy plants for the same tank

Temple PlantWater WisteriaAmazon SwordRed Tiger LotusJungle ValCryptocoryne Balansae

Care ranges are typical hobby guidance and vary by source and by where the animal came from. Ask your supplier and watch your own tank. Spot a mistake on this page? Let me know.