Bala Shark Care Guide: Type, Diet, Breeding & Tank Mate

The Bala Shark is a freshwater aquarium fish of the Cyprinidae family. It is also known as tricolor shark, tricolor sharkmino, or silver shark.

If you want to add a fish with a shark-like body shape to your aquarium, the Bala Shark would be the best addition.

The Bala Shark is a beautiful fish with a silver body and black stripes. It can grow up to 24 inches in length, making it one of the largest freshwater aquarium fish.

The Bala Shark is a peaceful fish and can be kept with other peaceful fish such as barbs, gouramis, and danios.

In this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know about Bala Shark care including their diet, breeding, tank mates, and size. By the time you’re finished reading this article, you’ll be an expert on Bala Sharks!

Species overview of Bala Shark

Species overview of Bala Shark
Common names   Bala shark, silver shark, tricolor shark
Origin  Southeast Asia
Size  Up to 14 inches
Life expectancy Up to 10 years
Color  Silver with gray or yellow and black fins
DietOmnivore
Temperament   Peaceful
Minimum tank size 120 gallons
Temperature72–82°F (22–28°C)
pH6.0–8.0
Hardness  5–12 dGH
Care Level Easy
Breeding Egg-layer

Bala shark Malay Peninsula to the South China Sea; also in the Mekong River system. A large, spirited schooling fish that is among the most beautiful of all freshwater aquarium fishes.

The body shape is long and slender with a deeply forked tail fin and an elegant dorsal fin. The coloration is silver-gray with black stripes along the sides.

The fins are edged in black. The mouth is large and the teeth are sharp. This fish is a voracious eater and will consume just about anything that fits into its mouth.

It is an active swimmer and does best in a large aquarium with plenty of open space to swim. It is peaceful toward other fish but may be aggressive toward smaller fish.

The Bala shark is a schooling fish and does best when kept in a group of 5 or more. It is an egg layer that produces a large number of small eggs. The fry is easy to raise on live foods.

This fish grows rapidly and can reach a length of 24 inches (61 cm) or more. It is best to purchase small fish and allow them to grow to their full size in the aquarium.

The Bala shark is a popular aquarium fish but it is sometimes difficult to find for sale. It is also known as the Silver Shark, Shark Minnow, and Tricolor Shark. In the wild, they are common in Southeast Asia but are now considered endangered due to overfishing.

In 1975, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classified the Bala shark as a vulnerable species. The IUCN is now working with local governments in Southeast Asia to help protect this beautiful fish.

As these fish grow rapidly, experienced aquarists suggest that their tanks should be at least 100 gallons. They are known to be jumpers, so a tight-fitting lid is necessary.

If you want to own a Bala Shark it will cost you anywhere from $5-30. The price will depend on the size and age of the fish. You can find them for sale online or at your local pet store.

Bala Sharks are a hardy species that are easy to care for. They are a good choice for beginner aquarists who want to add some color and excitement to their tank.

Pros and Cons of Bala Shark Farming

Pros and Cons of Bala Shark Farming

Bala sharks are a type of carp that are found in many parts of the world. They are a popular food fish and are also used in farming operations. There are both pros and cons to Bala shark farming.

Here I’ll discuss some of the pros and cons of Bala shark farming.

Pros
  • Bala sharks are a popular food fish.

  • They are easy to farm and care for.

  • Bala sharks are hardy and can tolerate poor water quality.

Cons
  • Bala sharks grow slowly and take several years to reach maturity.

  • They require a large amount of space.

  • Bala sharks are susceptible to disease.

Overall, there are both pros and cons to Bala shark farming. It is important to do your research and weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether or not to start a Bala shark farm.

What does Bala Shark look like?

What does Bala Shark look like?

A Bala Shark is a type of fish that has a torpedo-shaped body and can grow up to 2 feet long. They are typically silver or gray in color and have a black stripe that runs along their sides.

Bala Sharks are schooling fish and can be found in the waters of Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Amazon River. They are a popular aquarium fish and can be trained to do tricks.

Bala Shark is one of the longest fish in the aquarium. The body color of this fish is cloudy white and bright in color. There is a black line from the gill to the tail. The body shape of this fish is a torpedo.

Their heads are narrow and their faces are u-shaped. Their mouths are small with sharp teeth. Bala Sharks have long, slender fins and long tails.

The total number of fins in the Bala Shark fish body is eight. There are dorsal, anal, and caudal fins in the fish body. The dorsal fin is located in the mid-line of the back.

The anal and caudal fins are at the bottom of the fish body. Pectoral fins are on both sides of the fish body near the head region.

Each fin has a different name, function and shape. The fins help the fish to swim, change direction and stop. The Iris of the eye is silver in color with a black pupil. The eyes of this fish are small and round in shape.

The fins and tail are white at the beginning and black at the end. The scales of the fish body are small and thin.

If you notice a few things, male and female Bala Sharks are difficult to identify. Because both look very similar in darkness. But the male Bala Shark is a little bigger than the female Bala Shark.

The length of an adult male Bala Shark can reach up to 80 cm. While the female only reaches 60 cm in length. The mouth of the male and female Bala Shark is the same size.

The dorsal fin and anal fins of the male Bala Shark are longer than the female Bala Shark. The pectoral fins, ventral fins, and caudal fins look the same in both sexes.

You can see some white spots on the side of the fish’s body when the fish is young. But as they age, the white spots will decrease and eventually disappear.

Is Bala Shark aggressive?

There is not much information available on whether Bala Sharks are aggressive or not. No, Bala shark is not an aggressive fish. It is a peaceful fish that can be kept with other peaceful fishes in the aquarium.

However, they are schooling fish and are typically docile, so it is unlikely that they would be aggressive towards humans.

If you are considering keeping a Bala Shark as a pet, it is important to do your research to make sure they will be compatible with the other fish in your aquarium.

Color Varieties

Color Varieties

There are a few different color varieties of Bala sharks that can be found in the wild. Some of these include the yellow, silver, and black varieties.

These different colors can be a result of different genetic mutations, and they can sometimes be found in the same litter of offspring.

Bala sharks that are kept in captivity may also come in different colors, such as blue or red. These colors are typically the result of dyeing or painting, and they are not permanent.

Some Bala shark enthusiasts prefer to keep their fish in their natural colors, while others may like the look of a brightly-colored fish. It is ultimately up to the owner to decide what color variety they would like to keep.

Bala Shark Size &  Lifespan

Bala Shark Size &  Lifespan

In addition to their hardiness, Bala sharks are also known for their impressive size. The biggest Bala sharks can reach up to 2 feet in length, making them one of the largest freshwater fish in the world.

While they may be a popular choice for aquariums, Bala sharks do have some drawbacks. They can be aggressive towards other fish, and they require a lot of space. They are also not ideal for beginners because they can be difficult to care for.

The lifespan of a Bala shark can vary depending on the size of the fish, with smaller fish living for around 4 years, and larger fish living for up to 10 years.

Balas sharks are a type of carp, and like other carp, they are a very hardy species, able to tolerate a wide range of water conditions.

This makes them popular in the aquarium trade, where they are one of the most commonly kept fish. However, their large size means that they need a very large tank, and they are not suitable for beginners.

Bala Shark Care

Bala Shark Care

Bala sharks are a type of fish that can be found in the warm waters of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.

They are popular aquarium fish due to their unique appearance and interesting behavior. Bala sharks require a lot of care, however, and should not be kept by inexperienced aquarists.

Bala sharks need a large tank with plenty of swimming space. They should be provided with a filter to keep the water clean and a heater to maintain the correct temperature.

The tank should also be covered to prevent the fish from jumping out. Food for bala sharks should be high in protein and low in fat. They can be fed a variety of items, including brine shrimp, bloodworms, and pellets.

Bala sharks are susceptible to ich, a parasitic infection that can be deadly if left untreated. Aquarists should take steps to prevent ich from spreading, such as keeping the tank clean and treating any infected fish immediately.

water condition

Water conditions are one of the most important aspects of keeping Bala sharks healthy and happy in an aquarium.

The water should be clean and clear, with a pH level of between 6 and 8. The tank should also be kept at a consistent temperature, preferably between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Bala sharks are also known to be quite sensitive to ammonia and nitrates, so regular water changes are a must. It is recommended that you change at least 25% of the tank water every week.

Finally, Bala sharks need plenty of room to swim and explore, so a larger tank is always better. A minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended for a single fish, but 125 gallons or more is ideal.

By following these simple guidelines, you can create a healthy and thriving environment for your Bala sharks.

Additional tank information

When it comes to caring for a Bala Shark, it’s important to provide them with an aquarium that is properly sized and filtered. The tank should also have a heater to keep the water at a consistent temperature.

In addition, you’ll need to provide some decorations such as plants, rocks, and driftwood to make the tank look natural and provide the shark with hiding places.

Finally, it’s important to feed your Bala Shark a high-quality diet that includes live food, frozen food, and flakes or pellets designed for large fish. By following these care guidelines, you can help your Bala Shark thrive in captivity.

Food & Diet information

Food & Diet information

When it comes to food and diet, Bala sharks are not fussy eaters. In the wild, they will feed on small fish, crustaceans, and insects.

In captivity, they can be fed a variety of foods, including live food, frozen food, pellets, and flakes. It is important to provide them with a high-quality diet that is high in protein and low in fat.

Bala sharks should be fed three times a day, and portions should be based on the size of the fish. Overfeeding can lead to health problems, so it is important to only give them as much food as they can eat in a few minutes.

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your Bala shark gets the nutrition it needs to stay healthy and thrive in captivity.

Behavior & temperament of Bala Shark

Behavior & temperament of Bala Shark

Bala sharks are active and social creatures that do best in groups. In the wild, they can be found swimming in schools of up to 100 fish.

They are peaceful fish that get along well with other species but can be nippy towards smaller tank mates.

Bala sharks are known for being jumpers, so it’s important to have a tight-fitting lid on your aquarium. These fish are also curious and active, so they will appreciate some hiding spots and plenty of open swimming space.

Bala sharks are generally easy to care for, but they do require a large tank and place best in an aquarium with other peaceful fish.

If you’re thinking of adding a Bala shark to your home aquarium, be sure to do your research and provide them with the space and care they need to thrive.

Recommended Aquarium Conditions

Recommended Aquarium Conditions
Water type:   Neutral freshwater
Tank size:   150 gallons
Water temperature:   72–82°F
Substrate:   Pebbles and mud
Tank setup:   Plants & roots
Acidity:   6.0–8.0 pH
Water hardness:   5–12 dGH
Filter:  Yes
Bubbler:   No
Lighting:   Yes
Water heater:   Yes

How many Bala Sharks can be kept in a tank?

How many Bala Sharks can be kept in a tank

Bala sharks are social creatures that do best in groups. For this reason, it is recommended to keep at least two Bala sharks together.

However, because they can grow to be quite large (up to 24 inches), it is important to provide them with a large tank. A minimum tank size of 100 gallons is recommended for two Bala sharks.

If you plan on keeping more than two Bala sharks together, you will need an even larger tank. As a general rule of thumb, add an additional 50 gallons of tank space for each additional fish.

So, if you want to keep four Bala sharks together, you would need a minimum tank size of 200 gallons.

Providing your Bala sharks with a large tank will give them the space they need to swim and socialize, and will help to prevent aggression and stress.

Bala sharks are beautiful fish that can make a great addition to your home aquarium. Just be sure to provide them with the space and care they need to thrive.

Ideal tank mates for Bala Shark

The ideal tank mates for Bala sharks are other peaceful fish that are similar in size. Some good options include:

Bala sharks do best in an aquarium with other peaceful fish, so it is important to choose wisely when selecting tank mates.

By choosing fish that are similar in size and temperament, you can help to avoid any aggression and stress amongst your Bala sharks.

Differences between Male and Female Bala Shark

Differences between Male and Female Bala Shark

The main difference between male and female Bala sharks is their size. Female Bala sharks tend to be larger than males, growing up to 24 inches in length.

Males, on the other hand, only grow to be about 20 inches long. Another way to tell the difference between male and female Bala sharks is by looking at their fins.

Female Bala sharks have longer and more pointed fins, while males have shorter and blunter fins. Finally, male Bala sharks tend to be more brightly colored than females.

While there are some physical differences between male and female Bala sharks, they are generally the same in terms of care and behavior. Both sexes are social creatures that do best in groups, and both require a large tank with plenty of swimming space.

So, whether you choose a male or female Bala shark for your home aquarium, you can be sure that you’re getting a beautiful and active fish that will add some excitement to your tank.

Types of Bala Shark

Types of Bala Shark

There are two main types of Bala shark – the common Bala shark and the silver Bala shark.

The common Bala shark is the most popular type of Bala shark and can be found in most pet stores. They are silver in color with black stripes running down their sides. Common Bala sharks grow to be about 24 inches long.

The silver Bala shark is a less common type of Bala shark and can be harder to find in pet stores. They are silver in color with a white belly and have a more slender body than common Bala sharks. Silver Bala sharks only grow to be about 20 inches long.

Both types of Bala sharks are peaceful fish that do best in groups. They are active swimmers and require a large tank with plenty of space to swim.

Bala sharks are not compatible with other fish that are small enough to fit into their mouths, so it is important to only keep them with fish that are the same size or larger.

Breeding of Bala Shark

Breeding of Bala Shark

Bala sharks are not easy to breed in captivity, and it is very difficult to tell the difference between male and female Bala sharks.

As a result, most people who want to breed Bala sharks will purchase a group of juvenile fish and allow them to grow up together.

As the fish mature, they will pair off and start to breed. If you are successful in breeding Bala sharks, you can expect to see anywhere from 20 to 100 baby fish.

Bala sharks are not easy to breed in captivity, but it is possible if you purchase a group of juvenile fish and allow them to grow up together.

If you are successful in breeding Bala sharks, you can expect to see anywhere from 20 to 100 baby fish.

Providing a Suitable Environment

If you want to breed Bala sharks, it is important to provide them with a suitable environment. Bala sharks are active swimmers and require a large tank with plenty of space to swim.

The tank should also have hiding places and plenty of plants. Bala sharks are not easy to breed in captivity, so it is important to provide them with the best possible environment to increase your chances of success.

Bala sharks are active swimmers and require a large tank with plenty of space to swim. The tank should also have hiding places and plenty of plants.

By providing a suitable environment, you can increase your chances of success when breeding bala sharks in captivity.

Introducing the Fish to the Tank

When you are ready to add Bala sharks to your tank, it is important to acclimate them slowly. Start by floating the bag in the tank for 15 minutes.

After 15 minutes, open the bag and add a small amount of water from the tank to the bag. Repeat this process every 15 minutes for one hour.

After one hour, you can release the fish into the tank. Bala sharks are active swimmers and require a large tank with plenty of space to swim, so make sure your tank is ready before adding them.

By acclimating the fish slowly, you can help them transition to their new environment and increase their chances of survival.

Caring for the Eggs

If you are successful in breeding Bala sharks, you can expect to see anywhere from 20 to 100 baby fish. The eggs will be scattered throughout the tank and will hatch within 24 hours.

It is important to remove the parents from the tank as soon as possible, as they may eat the eggs or baby fish.

The eggs will hatch within 24 hours, and it is important to remove the parents from the tank as soon as possible. The baby fish will need to be fed live food, such as brine shrimp or micro worms.

10 Pro Tips for Keeping Bala Shark in an Aquarium

Keeping Bala Shark in an Aquarium

1. Bala sharks are peaceful fish that do best in groups. They are active swimmers and require a large tank with plenty of space to swim.

2. Bala sharks are not compatible with other fish that are small enough to fit into their mouths, so it is important to only keep them with fish that are the same size or larger.

3. Bala sharks are not easy to breed in captivity, and it is very difficult to tell the difference between male and female Bala sharks.

As a result, most people who want to breed Bala sharks will purchase a group of juvenile fish and allow them to grow up together.

4. If you are successful in breeding Bala sharks, you can expect to see anywhere from 20 to 100 baby fish. The eggs will be scattered throughout the tank and will hatch within 24 hours.

5. It is important to remove the parents from the tank as soon as possible, as they may eat the eggs or baby fish. The baby fish will need to be fed live food, such as brine shrimp or micro worms.

6. Bala sharks are relatively easy to care for and make a great addition to any aquarium. They are peaceful fish that are fun to watch and can provide years of enjoyment.

7. Bala sharks are not considered to be good community fish, as they can be aggressive towards other fish that are small enough to fit into their mouths. As a result, they should only be kept with fish that are the same size or larger.

8. Bala sharks are not easy to breed in captivity, and it is very difficult to tell the difference between male and female Bala sharks.

As a result, most people who want to breed Bala sharks will purchase a group of juvenile fish and allow them to grow up together.

9. If you are successful in breeding Bala sharks, you can expect to see anywhere from 20 to 100 baby fish. The eggs will be scattered throughout the tank and will hatch within 24 hours.

10. It is important to remove the parents from the tank as soon as possible, as they may eat the eggs or baby fish. The baby fish will need to be fed live food, such as brine shrimp or micro worms.

Now you know some tips for keeping Bala sharks in your aquarium! By following these tips, you can provide your fish with the best possible care and ensure they have a long and healthy life.

How to Add Bala Shark to Your Aquarium Tank?

Bala sharks are peaceful fish that do best in groups. They are active swimmers and require a large tank with plenty of space to swim.

If you want to add a Bala shark to your aquarium, it is important to acclimate the fish slowly to help them transition to their new environment.

1. Begin by floating the fish in the bag for 15 minutes. This will help them to acclimate to the temperature of the water in the tank.

2. After 15 minutes, open the bag and slowly add a cup of water from the tank to the bag. Repeat this process every 15 minutes for an hour.

3. After an hour, release the fish into the tank.

4. Bala sharks are active swimmers and require a large tank with plenty of space to swim. As a result, they are not well suited for small tanks. A minimum tank size of 50 gallons is recommended.

5. Bala sharks are peaceful fish that do best in groups. They should be kept in groups of at least 3 fish.

Adding Bala sharks to your aquarium can be a rewarding experience. These active and social fish are sure to add some excitement to your tank!

Common Diseases

There are a few diseases that are common in Bala sharks. Here are some of the most common:

White Spot Disease

This is a parasitic infection that is caused by Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, or white spot disease.

The parasites attach themselves to the fish and cause them to develop white spots on their body. This disease is contagious and can quickly spread to other fish in the tank.

Dropsy

Dropsy is a condition that causes the fish to swell up due to fluid retention. This can be caused by a number of different things, including bacterial infections, viral infections, tumors, or organ damage.

If your fish is displaying signs of dropsy, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.

Swim Bladder Disease

This is a condition that affects the swim bladder, which is a gas-filled organ that helps the fish to maintain its buoyancy.

Swim bladder disease can be caused by a number of different things, including infection, injury, or genetics.

If your fish is displaying signs of swim bladder disease, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.

which Reasons You Should Keep Bala Shark in Your Aquarium tank?

which Reasons You Should Keep Bala Shark in Your Aquarium tank?

If you’re thinking of adding a Bala Shark to your aquarium, you might be wondering what benefits they offer.

Here are four reasons why we think Bala Sharks make great additions to any freshwater tank!

They’re Active and Fun to Watch

Bala Sharks are very active fish, and their playful nature makes them a joy to watch. They’re constantly swimming around the tank, exploring their surroundings and interacting with other fish. This activity level means they’re also good at keeping the water circulation going in your tank.

They’re Peaceful Fish

Despite their large size, Bala Sharks are peaceful fish that get along well with other tank mates. They’re not known for being aggressive or nippy, so they’re a good choice if you want to add them to a community tank.

They’re Easy to Care For

Bala Sharks are relatively easy to care for, as long as you provide them with a spacious tank and plenty of hiding places. They’re not fussy eaters, either, so you won’t have to worry about them being picky with their food.

They’re a Great Conversation Starter

Bala Sharks are such unique-looking fish that they’re sure to start a conversation whenever someone sees them. Their long, streamlined bodies and distinctive fins make them stand out from other fish in the aquarium, which is sure to impress your friends and family.

If you’re looking for an active, peaceful, and easy-to-care-for fish, then a Bala Shark is a great choice for your aquarium. They’re also sure to be a conversation starter whenever someone sees them!

Now you know all about why Bala Sharks make great additions to any freshwater tank. Are you ready to add one to your aquarium?

If you have any questions feel free to ask in the comments below or contact us, and we’ll be happy to help you out!

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