Bala Sharks Facts:
Scientific Name : Balantiocheilus melanopterus
average adult size: | 13 inches long |
average life span: | 10 years |
diet: | omnivore - flakes/pellets |
minimum aquarium size: | 30+ gallons |
water parameters: | temp:73-81°F pH: 5-8 |
Diet
A well-balanced Bala Shark diet consists of:
- Food may be flaked, pellet, frozen or live.
- Avoid exclusive food which is not nutritionally complete.
Feeding
Things to remember when feeding your Bala Shark:
- Feed small amounts 1-3 times daily, no more than fish will eat in 3-5 minutes.
- Thaw frozen foods if you choose to feed frozen.
Housing
- Keep in an appropriate size aquarium; provide plants for hiding, various species may prefer sparse or thick vegetation.
- Stable water quality, water temperature, and pH levels are critical to the health of the aquatic life. If you are unsure of your water quality or pH levels, Home Aquatics offers water testing.
Characteristics
- During spawning, the females are noticeably thicker-bodied than males, but it is impossible to accurately sex young fish.
Habitat Maintenance
Daily: Check filter, water temperature and other equipment.
Weekly: Check water quality at least once a week.
Monthly: Change 10-25% of the total volume of water every 2-4 weeks, or as needed.
Introduce new inhabitants to the aquarium gradually.
Compatibility
Danio are compatible with most peaceful species of fish, however tankmates should be large enough to not fit in the Bala Shark's mouth. Bala Sharks like to be kept in groups of 3-5 of the same species.
Health
Signs of a Healthy Fish
- Clear eyes
- Healthy appetite
- Bright, even coloring
- Clean in appearance
Avoid overcrowded conditions; they are a major cause of stress and disease. Maintain good water quality with regular water changes and adequate filtration.
Red Flags
- loss of color or appetite
- spots or fungus on body or mouth
- erratic swimming
- frayed fins
Common Health Issues
Health Issue | Symptoms or Causes | Suggested Action |
---|---|---|
Fin rot | Frayed or disintegrating fins; the base of the fins usually reddens. | Improve water quality; consult your aquatic veterinarian for treatment. |
Ich | White spots appear on fins and body; fish rubs against hard objects or swims awkwardly. | Quarantine fish immediately; use a commercial ich remedy for at least two weeks |