Bala Shark - Fish Keeper Hub

The Bala Shark, scientifically named Balantiocheilos melanopterus, is commonly referred to by several names including tricolor shark, tricolor sharkminnow, silver shark, or shark minnow. It belongs to the family Cyprinidae and is one of two species within the genus Balantiocheilos. Despite its name, this species isn’t an actual shark.

It earned the “shark” moniker due to its resemblance to true sharks, characterized by a torpedo-like body shape and sizable fins.

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Origins

Bala sharks are native to Southeast Asia, primarily inhabiting medium to large rivers and lakes. Historically, they were prevalent in regions such as Thailand, Borneo, Sumatra, and the Malayan Peninsula. Unfortunately, their numbers have dwindled significantly, leading to their scarcity in many of these original habitats, and in some areas, they are believed to be extinct.

The reasons behind the decline of bala sharks in their natural environments are subject to debate. Overfishing for the aquarium trade, damming of rivers, and pollution are all suspected contributors to their reduced population. Each of these factors has likely played a role in the decrease of this once abundant species in Southeast Asia.

The bala shark’s rarity in its natural habitats is undisputed. Since 1996, it has been listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. In response to their dwindling wild populations, commercial breeding farms in Asia now predominantly sustain the species. These farms use hormonal methods to encourage spawning, and almost all bala sharks available in the aquarium trade are products of captive breeding.

Physical Characteristics

You’ll notice that bala sharks, scientifically known as Balantiocheilos melanopterus, have a sleek and silver body with a prominent dorsal fin. These magnificent creatures exhibit distinct physical characteristics that fascinate aquatic biologists and fish scientists.

Bala sharks have a streamlined shape and possess a pair of barbels near their mouth, which aid in locating food. Their lifespan can vary, but typically they live up to 10-15 years in captivity. In terms of growth rate, bala sharks can reach an impressive size of up to 14 inches in length within the first year.

Breeding habits of bala sharks involve the process of external fertilization, where females release their eggs and males fertilize them in the water. It’s crucial to gather accurate data and research-based information to fully understand the breeding habits, lifespan, and growth rate of these captivating fish.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

Keeping a bala shark can be challenging in some ways. First of all, they can get really big.Details are below but a big aquarium is a must especially if you plan to own a pair. Also they are capable of accelarate to incredible speeds very fast. They need space.

The scientific name for the bala shark is Balantiocheilos melanopterus. This species requires a large aquarium, preferably 125 gallons or more, as they can grow up to 14 inches in length.

For these fishes you need to replicate accomodation and decorations to mimic a fast-flowing river. Such a setup might include a substrate of rocks and gravel of various sizes, some sizeable, smooth boulders, and a few driftwood branches.

Bala Sharks, like many species from running waters, are particularly sensitive to the build-up of organic waste. They require impeccably clean water to flourish. Additionally, they thrive in conditions with high levels of dissolved oxygen and substantial water movement.

To achieve these environmental conditions, one or more large external filters are necessary. These filters will not only provide the needed oxygenation and water flow but also offer ample surface area for bacterial colonization. It’s also important to secure the tank with a robust, well-fitted lid, as Bala Sharks can be jittery at times and are capable of a strong leap.

Bala sharks prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. The temperature should be kept between 75-82°F. Filtration is essential to keep the water clean and free from ammonia and nitrate build-up.

Dont forget to make regular 25-30% water changes. Bala sharks do not like dirty waters.

Diseases

Bala sharks are not prone to any specific diseases, but they can be susceptible to common freshwater diseases if kept in suboptimal tank conditions.

Dropsy: This condition is characterized by fluid accumulation in the fish, often resulting from bacterial or parasitic infections. Signs include bloating, protruding eyes, scales sticking out, loss of appetite, lethargy, and rapid breathing. To treat dropsy, add ⅛ teaspoon of Epsom salt per five gallons of tank water and consult your veterinarian for appropriate antibacterial medications.

External Parasites: Bala sharks may encounter external parasites like anchor worms, fish lice, and flukes. These parasites are visible on the fish’s body or gills and can enter the tank through new fish, live foods, or plants. Treat with veterinarian-recommended medications or insecticides, remembering to remove activated carbon from the tank filter during treatment, as it can absorb the medication.

Ich (White Spot Disease): A common ailment in captive freshwater fish, Ich is indicated by white spots on the scales and behavior like rubbing against tank surfaces. To treat Ich, move the affected fish to a quarantine tank with water a few degrees warmer than their usual environment. Add one teaspoon of salt per gallon of water in the quarantine tank.

Feeding Bala Shark

When feeding your bala shark, make sure to provide a varied diet consisting of both commercial fish food and live or frozen foods. Bala sharks are omnivorous and have specific feeding habits. They’re known to consume algae, small invertebrates, and plant matter in the wild.

In captivity, they should be fed a combination of high-quality flake or pellet food. They admidere live foods such as Bloodworms,Brine shrimğ, Daphnia,mosquito larvae, and tubifex worms.

Fresh veggeables such as peas or spinach should be provided as well as freash fruits. Matching nutritional needs of the Bala shark is important.

Behavior and Socialization

In their natural habitat, bala sharks (Balantiocheilos melanopterus) tend to swim and school together, displaying a social behavior. These fish have a hierarchical structure within their schools, with dominant individuals taking the lead and others following suit. They communicate using various forms of body language, such as fin movements and color changes.

Sexually mature females are noticeably thicker-bodied than males but it is impossible to accurately sex young fish.

It’s important to note that bala sharks reach sexual maturity around two to three years of age and can live up to 10-15 years in captivity. Research on bala sharks’ behavior and reproductive patterns continues to provide valuable insights into their fascinating lives.

Breeding Bala Sharks

A. Challenges of breeding Bala Sharks in captivity:

Lack of suitable breeding pairs: Finding sexually mature male and female Bala Sharks can be challenging, as it is difficult to determine their gender until they have reached reproductive age.
Aggressive behavior: Bala Sharks can display aggressive behavior during the breeding process, resulting in potential harm to the breeding pair or other tank inhabitants.
Space requirements: Bala Sharks are large fish and require a spacious aquarium for successful breeding, making it challenging for hobbyists with limited space.
Water parameter challenges: Maintaining ideal water conditions, including temperature, pH, and water quality, is crucial for successful breeding of Bala Sharks.

B. Preferred breeding conditions for Bala Sharks:

Large aquarium: Bala Sharks require a spacious aquarium to accommodate their adult size and to provide ample swimming space for the breeding pair.
Ideal water parameters: The recommended water temperature for breeding Bala Sharks is around 77-82°F (25-28°C), with a neutral pH level of 6.5-7.5. Regular monitoring of ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels is necessary to ensure optimal water quality.
Adequate filtration: A powerful filtration system to maintain water quality and remove waste is essential for breeding Bala Sharks.
Hiding places: Bala Sharks appreciate the presence of plants, rocks, or other structures that provide hiding places for the breeding pair.
Balanced diet: A nutritious and varied diet consisting of both live and prepared foods is crucial for the health and successful breeding of Bala Sharks.

C. Rearing and growth of Bala Shark fry:

Separate rearing tank: Once the Bala Shark eggs hatch, it is recommended to transfer the fry to a separate rearing tank to protect them from being eaten by adult fish.
Feeding: Bala Shark fry can be fed with infusoria, rotifers, and newly hatched brine shrimp for the initial stages. As they grow, their diet can be gradually expanded to include finely crushed flake foods and small live or frozen foods.
Water quality: Maintaining excellent water quality is vital for the healthy growth and development of Bala Shark fry. Regular water changes and meticulous monitoring of water parameters are necessary.
Growth rate: Bala Shark fry grow relatively quickly, but their growth rate can vary depending on several factors, including diet, water quality, and tank conditions.
Socialization: Bala Shark fry are social fish and thrive in groups. Keeping them together in the rearing tank promotes their well-being and development.

Compatibility With Other Fish

If you want to add other fish to your aquarium, it’s important to consider their compatibility with bala sharks (Balantiocheilos melanopterus). Bala sharks are known for their peaceful nature and can be kept with a variety of tank mates. However, it’s crucial to select species that can tolerate the same water conditions and have similar temperaments.

When choosing tank mates for bala sharks, it’s recommended to avoid aggressive or territorial species that may harass or harm them. Good choices include peaceful community fish like tetras, barbs, and rasboras. Avoid keeping bala sharks with fin-nipping species as their long fins can be targeted.

It’s essential to provide ample space in the aquarium to accommodate the active nature of bala sharks. A larger tank with plenty of swimming space will help reduce potential conflicts with other fish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the bala shark (Balantiocheilos melanopterus) is a fascinating species with distinct physical characteristics and behavior. It requires a spacious tank with suitable habitat conditions and a proper diet for its well-being.

When it comes to socialization, it’s compatible with certain fish species. This conclusion is based on scientific terminology, presenting objective and factual information obtained from accurate data and research-based studies.

Overall, the bala shark is an intriguing fish that warrants further exploration and understanding.

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