Albino Bala Shark

The Albino Bala Shark is a selectively bred albino variant of Balantiocheilos melanopterus in which the typical silver body and black fin margins are replaced by a pale, pearlescent cream-white body and pale pinkish fins with reduced or absent dark pigment. The red eyes characteristic of true albinos are evident. This morph was developed by fish farms in Southeast Asia and is periodically available in the specialist trade.

Care requirements are identical to the standard Bala Shark: large tank, strong filtration, tight-fitting lid, and a school of three or more. Albino fish sometimes display slightly reduced stress tolerance compared to pigmented forms, making stable, high-quality water conditions even more important. The pearlescent white scales are spectacular under well-directed aquarium lighting.

The Albino Bala Shark is an omnivore that accepts all standard aquarium foods with the same eagerness as the standard form. It grows to the same large size and has the same peaceful, community-friendly temperament, making it an eye-catching alternative to the classic silver form for large display aquariums.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, moderate hardness; stable, pristine water essential for albino health. Tank: 400 L minimum; school of three+; very secure lid; avoid sharp decor. Feeding: Omnivore; flake, pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp; eager and vigorous feeder. Breeding: Albino form rarely bred commercially; captive reproduction as per standard form. Compatibility: Peaceful; keep with large tetras, gouramis, medium catfish; avoid very small tankmates.