Due to the large size of bala shark tanks when mature and the need for ample swimming space, choosing the appropriate tank size is key to ensuring optimal health and development for the fish. In this article, fishtankenthusiast.com will explore the specific requirements for Bala shark tank sizes, factors to consider when setting up the tank, and the benefits that a suitable aquarium brings to the fish. Let’s learn about the topic Bala shark tank size with us fishtankenthusiast.com.
Species summary: you may be interested
Native to Southeast Asia, the Bala shark is affectionately known as the “Gentle Giant” because of its larger size and pleasant temperament. This beautiful freshwater fish will make a great addition to your freshwater aquarium if you have a little experience keeping fish.
This fish’s relaxed and calm temperament makes them ideal tankmates for many other fish species. This also means that the level of care is quite manageable.
They come in yellow, black, and gray colors, and can grow up to 12 inches long, or 25-30 cm, making them relatively large for an aquarium fish. Bala shark’s lifespan can be up to 10 years if properly cared for.
A member of the Cyprinidae family of fish, they (Balantiocheilus melanopterus) prefer to live in fast-flowing rivers and streams in the Southeast Asian countries of Sumatra, Kalimantan, Cambodia, Malaysia and Thailand.
In their native habitat, Bala sharks are also known by other names such as tricolor sharks, silver sharks, silver sharks and tricolor groupers due to their unique colors and spots. Today, Bala sharks are considered an endangered fish and are believed to have become rare or extinct in many of their original freshwater habitats.
Although their name suggests a similarity to sharks, which are considered ferocious predators, these gentle freshwater sharks get their name from their similar body shape and high-shaped dorsal fin. triangle.
Additionally, these fish have no characteristics or behaviors similar to sharks that live in saltwater oceans.
Temperament and activity level
These affable fish move in schools when in the wild and fish owners should purchase several of these Bala sharks at a time as they enjoy company. They tend to be very active and make great aquarium fish because they are fun to watch.
They are very active fish so it is likely that they will jump occasionally. This is why keeping a lid on the aquarium is a smart idea.
Aquarium owners should place hiding places for Bala sharks to rest when tired from swimming. Trees and roots also work well.
Partly due to their ability to grow quite large, they can easily take over when it comes to food. This is especially true if kept with smaller fish that cannot hold their own.
Although not considered an aggressive fish, Bala sharks may eat smaller fish, especially smooth and shiny fish, as they get larger. However, these fish tend to get along well with many types of freshwater aquarium fish.
Bala shark tank size
Since these fish are rare in their natural habitat, most of these fish are purchased from fish farms. They are usually only 3 to 4 inches long when first purchased, and fish keepers are often surprised to learn that the adult size can be up to 1 foot or 13 inches.
As these Bala fish get older, they should be transferred to a larger sized aquarium. Additionally, these fish should be closely monitored as they grow to ensure continued compatibility with younger fish.
Habitat and care for Bala sharks
As mentioned earlier, the main factor in a bala fish’s environment is tank size. A 125-gallon aquarium is needed to house a school of adult bala sharks, and because they are active swimmers, a longer tank is recommended. This is an active and easily startled fish.
In warm climates, ponds are also an option for this species, but they should only be kept outdoors in places that are warm year-round. They are sensitive to water conditions, especially low water temperatures, and are susceptible to white spot disease when the temperature drops too low.
The aquarium should be fitted with a tight-fitting lid, as this species will jump when startled. Decorate with large healthy plants around the perimeter of the tank, but leave plenty of open swimming space in the middle of the tank. Floating plants are also suitable to prevent fish from jumping out.
Provide smooth stone and driftwood for decorative finishing touches. The filtration system must be robust to ensure good water movement and high oxygen levels throughout the water column.
Diet and feeding of the Bala shark
This species is omnivorous and not picky about its food. Bala sharks accept flakes, pellets, frozen foods and dry foods.
They also enjoy eating live foods, including Daphnia, bloodworms, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, and tubeworms.
Their diet should also include vegetables; they often eat fresh vegetables such as spinach and peas, as well as fresh fruit.
Bala Shark Tank Mates
Balas can live with other large, gentle fish. If you plan to keep balas with tank mates and have a large enough aquarium, here are some things to consider:
Tin Barb
Like bala fish, tin foil groupers are fish that live in large schools, requiring a large tank. They are gentle fish and if you have enough space, they will make good tank mates with bala sharks.
Silver dollar
These species are related to piranhas, but they are not as dangerous. Another large fish that lives in schools, because they are very active, many fish keepers like to keep them in long tanks.
Angelfish
Freshwater angelfish are South American perch that can live well with large, peaceful fish like balas. These fish have their own set of problems, so learn as much as you can about angel fish care before adding them to your tank.
Discus fish
Another gentle New World tilapia, discus do well in quiet tanks with non-aggressive tank mates. However, these species are quite expensive, so think carefully before buying.
Plecostomus
Because they grow so large, I usually try to steer people away from the common pleco and toward smaller species such as hardnose plecos and rubber-lipped plecos, or even small plecos. But if you have a tank large enough for an adult bala shark, you probably have room for a common plecostomus.
Tiger Barb
Tigerfish are school-living fish, about 3 inches long. Although they are often considered good tank mates for bala sharks, they can be a bit aggressive so be careful when introducing them to your tank.
Black Skirt Tetra
If you want a school of tetras to go with your bala fish, consider a species like the black skirt tetra. They grow large enough that all but the largest balas will not consider them food.
Rainbow Fish
Several species of rainbow fish may be suitable for balas, including Boeseman rainbow fish and emerald rainbow fish. Note that they are not the same as rainbow sharks, which are generally incompatible with balas fish.
Clownfish
Clown loaches have some of the same problems as bala fish, in that they are often purchased when they are young by inexperienced fish keepers. However, they are large fish that live in schools. However, if you have a large enough tank, they make excellent tankmates for your bala shark.
Conclusion
Understanding and meeting the correct size requirements for bala shark tank size not only helps the fish grow healthily but also contributes to creating an ideal living environment, minimizing stress and disease. A spacious enough aquarium will provide the necessary space for Bala sharks to swim freely, express natural behavior and maintain flexibility. At the same time, a properly sized fish tank also creates favorable conditions for caring for and maintaining the ecosystem in the tank. By investing in a suitable aquarium and maintaining optimal living conditions, owners can enjoy the beauty and vibrancy of Bala sharks for many years. Remember, careful preparation and commitment to maintaining good habitat will bring long-term benefits to both the fish and the farmer.
