Balantiocheilos melanopterus - Bala Shark

Balantiocheilos melanopterus - Bala Shark

The Bala Shark, scientifically known as Balantiocheilos melanopterus, is a striking and popular aquarium fish.

Temperature: Bala Sharks thrive in a tropical aquarium environment with a recommended temperature range of 24 to 30 degrees Celsius (75 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). Maintaining a stable and suitable temperature is crucial for their well-being.

pH: Keep the water slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH level ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. This pH range helps create an optimal environment for the Bala Shark.

Hardness: These fish prefer moderate water hardness, with a range of 5 to 15 degrees of total hardness (dH). Providing water within this hardness range contributes to their overall health.

Behavior: Bala Sharks are known for their active and schooling behavior. They are social fish that thrive in groups, so it's recommended to keep them in a school of at least five individuals. In smaller groups or as solitary fish, they may exhibit shy or stressed behavior.

Environment: In their natural habitat, Bala Sharks inhabit large rivers and open waters. In the aquarium, ensure there is ample swimming space with open areas for their active nature. A spacious tank with a minimum size of 379 liters (100 gallons) is advisable to accommodate their adult size and schooling behavior. Adequate filtration and regular water changes contribute to a healthy environment for Bala Sharks.

Balantiocheilos melanopterus - Bala Shark

The Bala Shark, scientifically known as Balantiocheilos melanopterus, stands out as a captivating and sought-after aquarium species.

Temperature: Bala Sharks thrive in a tropical aquarium environment, with an ideal temperature range of 24 to 30 degrees Celsius (75 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). Maintaining a stable and appropriate temperature is crucial for their overall well-being.

pH: To create an optimal environment for the Bala Shark, it is recommended to keep the water slightly acidic to neutral, maintaining a pH level ranging from 6.5 to 7.5.

Hardness: These fish prefer moderate water hardness, with a range of 5 to 15 degrees of total hardness (dH). Providing water within this hardness range contributes significantly to their overall health.

Behavior: Bala Sharks are renowned for their active and schooling behavior. They are social creatures that thrive when kept in groups, ideally in schools of at least five individuals. In smaller groups or as solitary fish, they may exhibit shy or stressed behavior, so maintaining a group is recommended.

Environment: In their natural habitat, Bala Sharks inhabit large rivers and open waters. In an aquarium setting, it's crucial to provide ample swimming space with open areas to accommodate their active nature. A spacious tank, with a minimum size of 379 liters (100 gallons), is advisable to accommodate their adult size and schooling behavior. Adequate filtration and regular water changes are essential for maintaining a healthy and thriving environment for Bala Sharks in captivity.