Peaceful
Moderate
Schooling
Bala Shark
Balantiocheilos melanopterus
Minimum Tank
125 Gallons
Adult Size
14 inches
Temperature
72-82°F (22-28°C)
pH Range
6.5-8.0
Lifespan
10 years
School Size
5+ fish
About Bala Shark
Not a shark but a large cyprinid. Often bought small, gets massive.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 125-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- • pH: 6.5 - 8.0
- • Category: Barb
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
🐟
Large Peaceful Fish
Avoid Keeping With
⚠️
Small Fish
Not compatible
⚠️
Aggressive Fish
Not compatible
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Gets very large, needs huge tank, keep in groups of 5+.
Quick Facts
473L
Min Tank (125gal)
36cm
Adult Size (14")
10yr
Lifespan
5+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Bala Shark