Silver Shark - (No Online Purchases)

Description:

Name: Silver Shark / Bala Shark / Tricolour Shark - In-Store Pickup Only

Scientific Name:Balantiocheilos melanopterus

Description: A striking and active freshwater fish known for its sleek, silver body, streamlined shape and distinctive fins edged in black. Despite its shark-like appearance and name, the Silver Shark is actually a member of the cyprinid family and is closely related to barbs and other freshwater minnows. These impressive fish are peaceful, fast-swimming and highly active, making them a popular choice for large freshwater aquariums. Silver Sharks are schooling fish and look particularly impressive when kept in groups, although their substantial adult size means they require plenty of swimming space.

Origin: Southeast Asia, particularly Borneo, Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula, where they inhabit large freshwater rivers and lakes.

pH: Approximately 6.0–8.0

Temperature: Around 24–28°C

Adult Size: Approximately 30–35 cm

Lifespan: Approximately 8–12 years under suitable aquarium conditions.

Food: Omnivorous. Feed a varied diet of quality tropical pellets, flakes, frozen or live brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia and other suitable aquatic invertebrates. Vegetable-based foods, spirulina pellets and blanched vegetables can also be offered. A balanced diet supports healthy growth and development.

Compatibility: Peaceful but very active schooling fish, best kept in groups of five or more to encourage natural behaviour and reduce stress. Suitable tank mates include other large, peaceful community fish such as rainbowfish, larger barbs, peaceful catfish and similarly sized non-aggressive species. Avoid aggressive fish, very small fish that may be eaten as the Silver Shark grows, and delicate or slow-moving species that may be stressed by their energetic swimming.

Habitat: A very spacious aquarium with long, open swimming areas, driftwood, rocks and plants positioned around the edges. Provide good filtration, well-oxygenated water and moderate water movement. A secure, tightly fitted lid is essential, as Silver Sharks are powerful jumpers, particularly when startled. Stable water conditions and regular water changes are important for their long-term health.

Compatibility:

Keep with similar sized fish, such as Dwarf Cichlids, Mollies, Rainbowfish, Catfish or Large Tetras such as Congo or Emperor Tetras.