Bala shark

Bala sharks are found in midwater depths in large and medium-sized rivers and lakes. They feed on phytoplankton, but mostly on small crustaceans, rotifers, and insects and their larvae.

Bala sharks are popular aquarium fish. These fish are generally peaceful and good companions to many other types of tropical fish. The nickname "shark" is used because of their torpedo shaped bodies and long fins.

They are not actual sharks. Bala sharks are widely available in most pet stores, but these fish may grow to a size too large for the home aquarium.

These fish have a silver body with black margins on their dorsal, caudal, anal, and pelvic fins. Bala sharks have big eyes to see better to catch their prey. The Bala shark will grow to a maximum length of 12 inches but takes a long time to do so.

Tolerate Temperature Changes

Bala sharks are a hardy fish that will tolerate temperature changes, pH changes, and other factors to which other fish may be sensitive. The water pH should be 6.0–8.0. The preferable water hardness for this species is soft to medium (5.0–12.0 dGH). Water temperature should be kept between 22–28°C (72–82°F).

Many believe the fish is simply too large and too active to be kept in commercial aquaria at all; only enormous, custom-built tanks are acceptable, if any tank at all is. Indoor ponds are also considered feasible housing options and may be better suited to the average aquarist. This fish's habitat is often destroyed, making these fish rare in the wild.