Think Fish - The Tropical Fish Keeping Resource

Fish Database: Silver Shark - Balantiocheilos melanopterus

Aquarium requirements

Aquarium suitability: 3/5
Sociability rating: 8/10
Area of tank: All
Aquarium water conditions: 6-8.5, vs,s,m,h
Temperature: 22 - 28C
Feeding: Flake, pellet, frozen, live foods. Requires a varied diet.
Minimum tank size: 150cm
Min / Max number in tank: Min 3

Fish fact file

Family: Cyprinidae (Carps & Minnows)
Synonyms: Barbus melanopterus, Puntius melanopterus, Systomus melanopterus, Balantiocheilus melanopterus
Other common names: Bala Shark, Bala Sharkminnow, Tricolor Shark, Tricolor Sharkminnow
Origin: Southeast Asia; Thailand, Borneo, Sumatra
Natural habitat: Large and medium rivers and lakes
Size: 30cm
Behavior: Peaceful, active
Breeding:
Natural water conditions: pH 6-8, very soft to medium
Sexing: Impossible to tell unless the female is in breeding condition, in which case she will appear fatter

Fish code No.0108

Recently Viewed fish: Silver Shark

The Silver Shark has an instant attraction amongst fishkeepers, partly due to its name but usually due to its stunning sleek shape, robust fin markings and solid silver body. Although the Silver Shark is a good aquarium fish with a peaceful nature, its size excludes it from most aquariums. A 150cm aquarium is an absolute minimum for these fish. Unless you have a large aquarium, do not purchase these fish. The fish prefer plenty of open swimming spaces with only a few hiding spots and should be mixed with other peaceful medium-large fish. Make sure the aquarium has a good hood, as these fish can have a tendency to jump and are easily spooked. Can be prone to bacterial infections.

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