Bala shark - Balantiocheilos melanopterus

Scientific name: Balantiocheilos melanopterus

Common name: Bala shark

Family: Cyprinidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 30 - 40 cm (11.81 - 15.75 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 5.8 - 7.9

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 12°N (71.43 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 29 °C (71.6 - 84.2°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: East Asia

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Origin

The Bala shark (Balantiocheilos melanopterus) originates from Southeast Asia, specifically from river systems in Thailand, Borneo, and Sumatra. In the wild, their populations are declining due to habitat destruction from dam construction and overfishing for the aquarium trade. They are now considered endangered in some parts of their native range.

Lifespan

In a well-maintained aquarium, Bala sharks can live up to 6 years, though some individuals may live longer under optimal conditions.

Short description

The Bala shark, also known as the silver shark, is a large, torpedo-shaped schooling fish with metallic silver coloration and distinct black-edged fins. Despite its size, it is peaceful and suitable for large community aquariums with similarly sized species. Bala sharks are active swimmers and should be kept in groups of at least 3–5 individuals. Solitary Bala sharks can become stressed or skittish.

Because they grow up to 35–40 cm (14–16 inches), they require a spacious aquarium of at least 400–500 liters (100 gallons). The tank should offer open swimming areas along with driftwood, rocks, or tall plants for shelter. Use a tight-fitting lid, as these fish are powerful jumpers. Good water movement and oxygenation are essential, and temperature must remain stable—low temperatures can trigger stress or diseases like ich (whitespot).

Food and feeding

Bala sharks are omnivores with a strong appetite. Offer a varied diet that includes high-quality flakes or pellets as a staple. Supplement this with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia, as well as blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini. Feed once or twice daily, and avoid overfeeding to prevent digestive issues.

Sexing

Sexual dimorphism is not clearly visible in Bala sharks. Males and females appear very similar in size and coloration, making them difficult to sex reliably.

Breeding

Breeding Bala sharks in the home aquarium is considered impractical due to their large adult size and need for open water. In captivity, they have not been successfully bred under normal aquarium conditions. Commercial breeding is done in large ponds or through the use of hormonal treatments, particularly in Southeast Asia.

Suitable tankmates

Due to their peaceful temperament and large size, Bala sharks should be housed with other peaceful fish of similar size or larger. Suitable tankmates include:

Avoid housing them with small fish such as neon tetras, which may be seen as food due to the Bala shark’s size and speed.

Recommended plants

Although Bala sharks are active swimmers and may disturb delicate plants, hardy species that can tolerate their movement work well. Recommended plants include:

Q&A

Why does my Bala shark have a few black scales?

This may be caused by ammonia burns. The affected scales often darken temporarily and should return to normal if water quality improves. Regular testing and water changes help prevent such issues.