Bala Shark

Despite its common name, Balantiocheilos melanopterus is a true cyprinid, not a shark — its streamlined, torpedo-shaped body and upright dorsal fin merely suggest the resemblance. Native to large rivers and lakes across mainland Southeast Asia, including the Mekong, Chao Phraya, and Malay Peninsula, it inhabits clear to lightly turbid mid-water zones where it schools in large, fast-moving groups. Wild populations have declined significantly due to overfishing and habitat loss.

In the aquarium, Bala Sharks are among the most popular large schooling fish. They are active, fast-swimming, and completely peaceful — but they grow large (up to 35 cm) and require a genuinely spacious tank of at least 400 litres for a proper school of three or more. They are prone to jumping, so a tight-fitting lid is essential. Captive-bred specimens adapt well to standard tropical conditions.

Bala Sharks accept all standard aquarium foods: flake, pellets, frozen invertebrates, and even small live foods. Their graceful movement, striking silver and black colouration, and peaceful disposition make them one of the finest choices for the large community aquarium.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, moderate hardness; well-oxygenated water preferred. Tank: 400 L minimum for a school of three; tight-fitting lid essential — strong jumpers. Feeding: Omnivore; flake, pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp; excellent eaters. Breeding: Rarely bred in home aquaria; reported in large outdoor ponds in Thailand. Compatibility: Peaceful with all species too large to swallow; ideal with large tetras, gouramis, and catfish.