Although not considered an aggressive fish species , Bala Sharks can eat smaller fish, especially those that are smooth and sleek, as they get bigger. However, these fish tend to get along well with many types of freshwater aquarium fish.
Are bala sharks fin nippers?
However, despite bala sharks’ unusual size, these fish are pushovers. So avoid aggressive fish or fin-nipping fish . Bala sharks can’t thrive when other fish pick on them.
Will bala sharks eat other fish?
Tankmates. Juvenile bala sharks can be kept with a wide variety of fish due to their generally peaceful nature. As they grow larger, though, they will sometimes eat small fish , particularly sleek fish, such as the neon tetra.
Are bala sharks peaceful?
Bala sharks are misunderstood aquarium fish. These fish are generally peaceful and good companions to many other types of tropical fish. ... They 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.
Can you keep 1 Bala shark?
So they easily can grow into enormous tank busters. Plus, you shouldn’t keep just one Bala shark in a tank, they need to be in a school of five or more . The minimum tank size for this fish, especially if you want to keep other fish with them, is 150 gallons (568 liters).
Why do my Bala sharks keep dying?
One of the leading reasons Bala Sharks die prematurely in home aquariums is their tendency to leap out of the water . Balas are graceful, powerful swimmers but when they get spooked, they would jump in a blink of an eye. In the wild, jumping makes for an excellent defense mechanism.
How long does a Bala shark live?
They’re colored yellow, black and gray, and they can grow up to 12 inches, or 25-30 cm, in length making them relatively large for an aquarium fish. The lifespan of a Bala Shark can be up to 10 years with the proper care.
Can a Bala shark live in a 20 gallon tank?
Can a Bala shark be placed in a 20-gallon tank? They may be able to when they are quite small, but it won’t be long before they will be too big for a 20-gallon, let alone a school of them. ... No , bala sharks have to be placed in a bigger tank (120 gallons or more) because they can outgrow a small aquarium.
Why do Bala sharks twitch?
Yes, it is most likely stress from what he’s gone through . All fish are stressed by being netted and moved to a new environment, and many take time to regain their normal behaviours.
Can a Bala shark live in a 75 gallon tank?
While some species that reach a similar size can be housed in a 55- to 75-gallon tank, the bala shark would find such conditions very cramped and likely displace a lot of water in its quick bursts across the tank. The bala shark is also a social fish that likes to live in groups .
What are good Tankmates for Bala sharks?
- Tinfoil Barbs (Barbus schwanefeldi)
- Boesemani Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia boesemani)
- Emerald Rainbowfish (Glossolepis wanamensis)
- Clown Loaches (Chromobotia macracanthus)
- Angelfish (Pterophyllum sp.)
- Black Ghost Knifefish (Apteronotus albifrons)
Can a Bala shark live in a 10 gallon tank?
They start out as cute little three-inch fish and end up in some kid’s 10-gallon tank because they are so cool. But Bala sharks grow a foot long and need to be kept in schools .
Can red tail sharks live with Bala sharks?
Here are some possible Red Tail Shark tank mates: Neon Tetra . Bala Shark . Honey Gourami .
Do bala sharks and rainbow sharks get along?
As the Rainbow Shark dwells at the bottom of the aquarium, avoid other bottom-dwelling fish such as cichlids and catfish. You should also avoid any similar looking fish, i.e. Red Tail Sharks and Bala Sharks. ... Species such as Gouramis, Barbs, Danios and Rainbowfish are all compatible with Rainbow Sharks.
Do bala sharks have babies?
After laying eggs and depositing sperm, bala sharks don’t spend any time caring for the eggs. When the eggs hatch, the babies are on their own . Adult balas sometimes eat their own young rather than nurture them.
Can Bala shark live in cold water?
Suitable temperatures for bala sharks are in the ballpark of 72 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit , according to FishChannel.com. The bulk of aquarium fish thrive in temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees. ... Certain types of fish do well in water on the cool side, while others require warmer temperatures.
