Bala Shark
Bala Shark(Balantiocheilos melanopterus) is one of the most beloved and most frequently mishoused freshwater fish in the hobby. The silver body with black-edged yellow fins and the elegant, streamlined shark-like profile create a fish of genuine beauty and presence — and one that isIUCN Endangered, with wild populations that have collapsed catastrophically due to habitat destruction and overcollection across Southeast Asia.
Feeding & Care Tip:Sera Vipan Tropical FlakesandHikari Micro Pelletsmake excellent daily staples. Supplement withHikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine ShrimpandHikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms2–3 times per week. Active mid-water feeders that eat from all levels.
⚠ Size Warning:Bala Sharks grow to14 inches (35 cm)and must be kept in groups of at least five, requiring a minimum of150 gallonsfor an adult school. They are commonly sold as small juveniles but grow quickly. Plan ahead.
Historically native to the Mekong, Chao Phraya, and Malay Peninsula river systems. Wild populations have declined severely — the species has essentially vanished from large parts of its historical range. All aquarium stock is captive-bred. The genus nameBalantiocheilosmeans ‘purse-lip’ in Greek.
Bala Sharks areschooling fish that must be kept in groups of at least five— solitary or small groups of Bala Sharks are anxious, dash into glass, and decline. A proper school calms dramatically and behaves naturally. The schooling behavior is one of the most impressive in the hobby — a school of large Bala Sharks moving in formation is a remarkable sight. They are also extraordinary jumpers — a tight-fitting lid is essential.
The commitment to Bala Sharks is significant — a school of adults needs a 150+ gallon aquarium. Juveniles are sold at 2–3 inches and are irresistible, but they grow steadily to 14 inches. The IUCN Endangered status makes responsible keeping of captive-bred stock all the more meaningful.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — must school; groups of 5+ essential |
| Typical Adult Size | 14 inches (35 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 5 minimum — 150+ gallon for adult school |
| Ideal Temp | 72–82°F (22–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 5–15 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 2–8 dKH |
| Staple Food | Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes; Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms |
| Origin | Mekong and Chao Phraya drainages, mainland Southeast Asia (IUCN Endangered) |
| Notes | IUCN Endangered — populations collapsed across Southeast Asia. All stock captive-bred. Must be kept in groups of 5+ — solitary specimens decline. Expert jumpers — tight lid essential. Silver body with black-edged yellow fins. |
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