Silver Shark / Bala Shark

Silver Shark / Bala Shark is a freshwater type of the Cyprinidae family. Bala sharks have long, pointed fins that are black-edged and have gray or silver bodies.

Due to their striking fin patterns and shark-like body shapes, bala sharks are popular with aquarists. Compared to actual freshwater sharks, these tranquil shoaling fish are less aggressive and territorial.

Bala sharks are a rare species that is in danger of extinction. The wild population of bala sharks may have decreased as a result of overfishing for the aquarium trade or 1975 forest fires.

The bala shark lives in warm, densely vegetated habitat with a pebbly, muddy substrate. Bala sharks swim in the middle of their habitat in waters that are moving quickly.

I. Size

• Average Adult Size: 28 cm (12 cm)
• Maximum Adult Size: 35 cm (14 in).
• Swimming Level: Middle level

II. You would love the fish because…

Bala sharks have bold, pointed fins and long, silver bodies. They’re calm fish with easygoing personalities.

Differences in color, pattern, fin shape, and sex The Bala shark is not a real freshwater shark. Because its long, pointed dorsal fin resembles a shark’s, the fish is known as a Bala shark.

The long, torpedo-shaped silvery-gray bodies of Bala sharks are edged in silver or yellow by black fins. The fish has small ventral fins that are black or gray in color. The top of its body is a lighter gray than the bottom.

The Bala shark’s small, tightly packed scales are iridescent, which means that they shimmer when the fish moves and reflect light.

III. Is this fish species peaceful or hostile?

• Recommended: 5 and more
• Overall hostility: Peaceful
• Hostility towards own species: Peaceful
• Hostility towards other Species: Peaceful

IV. Species compatibility

• Angelfish.
• Discus Fish.
• Kissing Gourami
• Boeseman’s Rainbowfish
• Blood Parrot Cichlid
• Black Ghost Knife Fish
• Tinfoil Barbs
• Clown Loach

V. How to feed this species?

Silver Sharks should be fed nutritious, high-quality aquarium food like tropical sinking pellets or insect-based bug bites. All of the essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals these fish need to grow to their full potential are present in these foods.

Recommended food

• Omega One Super Color Floating Pellets
• Fluval Bug Bites Tropical Fish Food

Word for the wise

Live Plants

Driftwood

Rocks

Live, frozen food

Aquarium Starter Kit

Filter

Heater

Thermometer