Freshwater Aquarium Sharks (Care Guides)

Silver Sharks Unleashed: The Complete Bala Shark Care Guide!

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Bala Shark Care Guide

This comprehensive Bala Shark Care Guide is designed to provide detailed insights into the proper care and maintenance of these remarkable aquatic species.

Bala sharks (Balantiocheilos melanopterus), are a stunning freshwater fish that has caught the attention of many aquarium enthusiasts. They are native to the streams and rivers of South East Asia and can be found in a range of habitas from swift-flowing waters to large rivers and natural lakes.

Whether you are experienced with keeping aquarium fish or a newbie considering adding your first Bala shark to your collection, tis comprehensive Bala shark care guide will equip you with what you need to know to ensure the well-being and success with keeping this awesome fish.

Bala Shark Care Guide

Bala sharks, also known as Silver Bala, Silver Shark and Tricolored Minnows; are not actual sharks but were named because of their torpedo-shaped bodies, triangle dorsal fin, and rigid fins, resembling a shark. Bala sharks inhabit freshwater environments.

Bala Shark Care Guide

Description

A popular fish among hobbyists, it has a silver body with black margins on its dorsal, caudal, anal, and pelvic fins.

The Bala has yellowish striped fins with black lines, and its ventral fins are small and sometimes monocolored.

It has a grey body with slightly uneven gradients, with closely spaced scales that allow for effortless movement through the water. Bala sharks have large eyes allowing it to cruise around the tank and survey all the goings on.

How Large Can the Bala Shark Grow?

In the wild, Bala sharks are considered to be rare. The fish available in aquarium shops are typically bred in fish farms.

They can reach lengths of up to 1 foot or 13 inches, making this species very large for the average home aquarium. These “sharks” require spacious tanks to accommodate their size.

Fish shops sell juvenile Bala sharks that are usually around 3 – 4 inches long. These fish, if fed right in a good sized tank, can grow up to six inches in one season.

The Bala shark is a schooling fish and are much happier when kept in a group. For that reason, people keeping this species will need a tank to accommodate many individuals.

Silver Shark Care Guide

Origin and Distribution of the Bala Shark

Once prolific in Southeast Asia, the Bala shark has experienced a great decline in its numbers in the wild. There are concerns that it has become extinct in many areas where it used to be common.

Today it is a threatened species. It has been on the IUCN Red  List since 1996.

Habitat degradation, environmental changes like river damming, over-fishing by the aquaculture industry, and increasing water pollution are all factors that have contributed to this species decline in population.

Bala Shark Care Guide: Ideal Habitat and Aquarium Tank Size

Ideal Habitat:

Specific conditions for their ideal habitat.

  • Water sensitivity: Sensitive to water conditions and temperature, prone to Itch (white spot disease) and bacterial infections in high temperatures.
  • They will jump: Tightly covering the fish tank is important as Bala Sharks have a inclination to jump when disturbed.
  • Swimming space: Decorate the tank with large, secure plants around the edges, leaving plenty of space in the center for swimming.
  • Outdoors: Ensure warm temperatures throughout the winter and provide a sheltered area from the elements. Alternately, keep them in ponds during the summer and in a heated aquarium during winter.
  • Well-oxygenated water: This is essential, and a circulation pump can be used in moderation to simulate a flowing environment like what they would have in their natural habitat.

Aquarium Tank Size

When keeping a number of individuals in the tank it is crucial that you provide a spacious area for them to swim and interact. Bala sharks are very active fish who will swim about the tank quickly. Here are some points to note:

  • Require a tank size of at least 100 gallons.
  • Include aquarium décor for sharks to hide in amongst.
  • Being excellent swimmers accustomed to fast-flowing water, they should be housed in a longer tank, rather than a deeper tank.
  • Maintain regular water flow by using flow pumps to create currents and increase oxygen levels.
  • Ensure the tank has a top glass cover to prevent fish jumping out.
  • As they grow larger, they will need to be moved to larger aquariums.

Bala Shark (Balantiocheilos melanopterus)

Bala Shark Care Guide: Maintaining a Healthy Aquarium Environment

Bala shark are a hardy freshwater fish species and their care is relatively simple. Here are some suggestions to keeping them healthy:

  • Clean Aquarium: Regularly clean the aquarium and ensure water chemical levels and temperatures remain stable for optimal conditions. Bala sharks are vulnerable to diseases if the water becomes polluted. Maintain clean water with a suitable biological filter to mimic their natural habitat.
  • Fresh and Nutritious Food: Provide them with a quality balanced commercial food. Add variety with the addition of live foods.
  • Monitor Behavior: Erratic behavior like swimming between themselves, playing dead, or crashing into glass walls may indicate that aquarium parameters are off or they lack sufficient swimming space.

Unless your setup has a large sump tank and efficient biological filter, regular cleaning and water changes are necessary to maintain good water quality. Performing partial water changes every week or two helps remove accumulated waste and maintain optimal water conditions for the fish.

Bala Shark Water Parameters

Maintain appropriate water conditions for your Bala Shark. The recommended pH range is between 6.5 and 8.

Aim for a water hardness of 12 dGH. Set the temperature to between 76°F and 80°F.

Regular water testing will ensure that the environment is right for these fish, avoiding health issues.

Temperament of the Bala Shark

Although Bala sharks get big, they are mostly peaceful with other fish in the tank and rarely eat smaller fish, unless tiny the fish are tiny fry.

Balas are very outgoing, and will spend much of their time interacting with one another and exploring the aquarium. They will establish a hierarchy with the other Bala sharks in the group.  It is recommended to keep a group of five or more specimens to prevent harassment of subdominant members. As the fish reaches sexual maturity this behavior become more apparent.

When fish are first introduced to an aquarium, they may initially be timid and easily startled. They may seek to hide in amongst plants and decor. Once they have settled in, the Bala sharks will actively swim about the tank, liking the open spaces.

This species of fish will jump, and accidents may happen if the aquarium doesn’t have a secure cover.

A common injury to fish that have been recovered after jumping out of the tank is the loss of the slime coat over the eye. Treatment should be provided to restore the slime coat eyes.

Balas can be quite greedy eaters and can scoff food presented before slower fish get a chance to eat their share. Other than that, they are generally peaceful and do not pose significant challenges.

Suitable Silver Shark Tankmates

Bala sharks have a peaceful nature. They usually get along well with other calm natured and similarly-sized fish species that can endure their active swimming behavior. To prevent conflicts and undue stress, aggressive or territorial fish, like aggressive African Cichlids, should be avoided as tankmates.

Juvenile Bala sharks are no problem at all in a community tank. They can coexist peacefully with other aquarium fish. However, as they mature into adulthood, they may begin to view smaller fish like neon tetras as food.

They are a schooling fish that thrive in groups of six or more. When kept alone or in small numbers, Balas tend to be skittish. Dominant individuals may bully others. For a harmonious environment keep at least four Bala sharks in a mixed community of fish.

Avoid keeping Balas with invertebrates such as shrimp or snails. These creatures are part of their natural diet. However, if you have a snail problem, Balas can be helpful in keeping their numbers down.

Balas can intimidate slow-moving fish in the tank due to their active energetic nature. Ensure you keep these fish in a large (preferably long) tank that can accommodate adult Bala sharks. By giving them plenty of room to swim tank-mates will be able to keep away from them.

When fist introducing Bala sharks to an aquarium, they will initially be shy. But if introduced to the tank in a school of five or six, they will gain confidence from the group and quickly settle in. You will be able to observe them shoaling together, forming bonds while foraging for food.

Once a school of Bala sharks is established, it is not a good idea to introduce additional sharks, as it can lead to the development of a pecking order where dominant individuals assert their superiority.

Bala Shark Care Guide

Feeding Your Bala Shark:

They are omnivores, consuming plants, small crustaceans, insects and their larvae, rotifers, and other invertebrates in their natural habitat.

In an aquarium, Balas readily accept various types of food, including dry flakes, live food, frozen shrimp or blood worms, and pellets.

A well balanced diet will keep your Bala sharks in good health. Like most aquarium fish, feed them three times a day for proper growth.

Consider the inclusion of vegetables such as peas with pods, cooked spinach, and chopped fruit.

Bala Shark Care Guide Diseases

Bala sharks are known for their resilience and longevity. By giving these fish a nutritious diet and keeping the quality of their tank water optimal, Bala will live for ten years.

Regular attention and periodic water changes are necessary to keep them thriving.

Balas are resilient to most illnesses. However, Ich (also called White Spot) can be a problem. Ich is a disease that attacks the skin, and it is a highly infectious parasitic disease. It may be introduced to the aquarium by another sick fish or it may come about if the fish are under stress or the water is poor quality.

Before starting treatment for Ich remove carbon from the filter as it can render the medication ineffective. Also, raise the aquarium temperature by 4 degrees Fahrenheit and add aquarium salt to the water. Finally, introduce parasite medication into the water.

Alternatively, remove infected fish to be treated to a smaller hospital tank.

Careful monitoring, especially during feeding, can help detect any signs of illness. If you observe unusual behaviors, then it pays to investigate further for illness.

Behaviors such as such as rubbing on substrate or rocks, frenzied spasmodic swimming or lethargy (not eating). Also body changes such as: marks or spots on the fish, swelling or a loss of color.

It’s important to be mindful of their jumping behavior.

Breeding Bala Sharks in a Home Aquarium

Requirements and Conditions:

Captive Bala sharks are difficult to breed. However, if you are keen to try then the following guide will help you understand the optimal requirements for successful spawning of these fish.

Bala sharks reach reach maturity at around 3-4 years old. They will need to be a minimum length of 5 inches (33 cm) before expecting them to be ready to breed. Due to their size, a large tank is necessary. The sharks should also be healthy and in optimal condition.

Breeding Tank Setup:

If you intend removing the adults from the tank after spawning use this setup:

A minimum of 55 gallons of water is required for a breeding tank. Maintain the temperature at 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Provide open space for the fish to swim and include plants along the tank’s edges for hiding spaces.

Keep the tank bottom bare for easier cleaning and better visibility of the fry. Ensure proper filtration, preferably with a sponge filter to prevent the fry from being sucked up.

To replicate spawning in their natural habitat, create a flow of water in the tank using an air stone or pump.

Male and female differences:

Telling the difference between male and female sharks can be difficult. By observing their behavior in a group of 6 or 7 can provide clues. Males tend to be slightly larger, while females develop a swollen abdomen as their eggs develop.

Spawning and Care:

Prior to breeding, feed the adult fish a high-protein diet consisting of live foods to prime them for reproduction. Introduce five or six mature fish to the tank.

When ready, the fish will engage in a courtship dance that stimulates the female to release her eggs.

Spawning behavior is like other fish in the cyprinid family, where the female scatters eggs near the substrate and the male fertilizes them.

A consistent water flow is helpful to mix the sperm with the eggs.

After spawning and fertilization remove the adults from the tank, leaving the eggs to hatch and grow. Alternatively, remove the eggs and place them in a separate aquarium for hatching. Parents do not care for the offspring and will quickly eat the eggs.

Adding Methylene Blue treatment to the tank water will stop bacterial build-up.

Raising Bala Shark Fry:

If the process of spawning was a success, you can expect fry in about 3-4 day. Maintain good filtration in the tank.

Once the fry become free-swimming and have absorbed their egg yolks, then it is time to feed them. To start with, boil a chicken egg and crush the yolk between your fingers into the tank.

Do this for a day or two, then provide a selection of food consisting of newly hatched brine shrimp, ciliated cyclops, artemia nauplii and quality commercial fry food.

When fed well with the right food, Bala sharks have a rapid growth rate, and it may be necessary to transfer them to larger tanks as they develop.

Final Thoughts – Bala Shark Care Guide

Bala sharks are an excellent addition kept as a small school of fish to any large aquarium. They are energetic, peaceful fish. When well looked after with correct nutrition and with tank water kept within optimal ranges, these entertaining fish can live ten years or more. Our Bala shark care guide provides a comprehensive look at the extraordinary aquarium fish species.

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The Ultimate Red Tail Shark Care Guide

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Red Tail Shark

Red Tail Shark (Epalzeorhynchos bicolor) is a tropical freshwater fish native to Thailand. It has been detected in the clear waters and floodplains in the basin of Chaos Playa; nowadays, it is classified as extinct. It is famous for its striking appearance with a completely black body with vibrant forked red tails. In captivity, you should expect your fish to grow to 6 inches, with the majority staying around 5 inches. It should probably live to about six years old. It’ is an omnivore; it will eat anything you put into the tank and should not be confused with the rainbow shark.

Summary of species

The Red Tail Sharks (Epalzeorhynchos bicolor) is a freshwater fish from Thailand. The species has been declared critically endangered. The majority of their body is black except their red caudal fin. The Red Tail Shark population was highly condensed in Bueng Boraphet, Thailand. It has been verified that this fish is still in the wild; their numbers are only a fraction of what they once were. There are things about keeping it in the aquarium that people don’t know about. We only recommend getting one if you are fully convinced of the commitment and responsibility for its maintenance.

Red Tail Shark Appearance

Redtail shark has a deep blackhead offset with a red forked tail. Red Tail Shark are often confused with Rainbow Shark. Both belong to the Cyprinidae family, but they are, in fact, separated species. They should be expected to grow to about 6″ with most going to 5″. At your age, there’s no discernible difference between females and males. Don’t keep Rainbow Shark together, as they’ll fight; more on compatibility and their tankmate section.

Red Tail Shark

Red Tail Shark: Tankmates, Care Guide and More…

The Redtail shark is incredibly active, which will bring plenty of entertainment to everyone who watches it. Due to their non-fussy nature, they are straightforward to feed, and once in their aquarium, they should not offer too many difficulties to remain happy. Read our free guides to learn more about fish diet and habitat.

Is the Red Tail Shark Right for your aquarium?

The Red Tail Shark is an exciting and beautiful fish. They present several challenges for beginner fish keepers, mainly because of their territorial nature; they need large aquariums. If you have space in a sizeable suitable tank, many territorial characteristics may be avoided with plenty of hiding places. We hope the guide has helped you decide if they are the right fish for your aquarium.

Description

The Red Tail Shark is predominantly dark black with a brightly contrasted red tail and white point on the dorsal fin. These hardy and curious fish add personality to an aquarium.

Red Tail Shark 2.5 inch plus

Red Tail Shark has a black body with a red tail that almost looks like a black shark. There should only be one Redtail shark in your tank because as long as you keep them in multiples, their aggressive and territorial behavior will get worse. Avoid the temptation to keep them with Rainbow Shark or other Black Sharks. White Tails sharks can be highly active but territorial when in multiple pairs. Those red-tailed black sharks have an aggressive and very territorial nature.

Red Tail Shark Size

Red Tail Shark

Red Tail Sharks usually grow up to 8 inches when fully grown. It is dependent on an environmental and genetic conditions. We don’t know anyone who has a Red Tail less than 3 inches. The average size tends to be at the higher end of its range as long as you give them proper care.

Behavior & Temperament

Redtail sharks are incredibly active fish and have fun to watch. You will often watch these sharks swim near the bottom of the tank. This species has a very territorial nature that needs to be considered when choosing to put those sharks in a community tank to feel comfortable. All other offensive tendencies displayed will be exaggerated because of lack of space or by the wrong tankmates. They need to find space and need to own space at camp. The easiest way to keep active fish well in an aquarium is by giving them space and the right conditions to reduce stress.

Typical behavior

These kinds of sharks are aggressive with fish that bother them. As he matures as an adult, they become territorial and pursue other fishes until they reach exhaustion. In a vast tank with a wide number of hideouts, you can keep a group of sharks. Each fish need at least 10 gallons of the tank to use as a hideout. Red Tails are aggressive with fish when straying from their territory. They will aggressively attack other fish while you are feeding them. All tank mates should have more space within a larger tank.

How do I keep a black shark happy in my tank?

The Red Tail Black Shark is a fish that belongs to the Cyprinidae family. This family is native to Thailand but is considered extinct in the wild. Famous for its large dark body and a vivid red tail, the fish can grow to about 6-inch in length. A lifespan of six to 10 years is expected, but rare reports report that some people live as much as 15 years. If you plan to keep this fish at your aquarium, be sure the tankmates you chose could stand up to that type of aggressive behavior.

Water parameters

Water parameters are one part of the Red Tail Sharkcare we shouldn’t get crazy about. Even though this isn’t the most sensitive species globally, you should constantly check the water parameters. Checking the water prevents anything from pollutants in the water to pH drops. Get an aquarium kit test and inspect your tank and tap water.

Tank conditions

It would be best to guarantee juveniles have a tank of at least 29 gallons, and adults have 55+ gallons. You may also try to ornament the tank to reduce territorial behavior and help protect more timid tank mates. For the water flow, you should try to ensure water is slow-flowing to match the natural environment. The substrate must include gravel and pebbles, or fine sand. Remember that they can be jumpers, and therefore you should use a heavier lid.

Habitat and tank requirements

During the rainy season in the natural habitat, these black sharks live in the flooded streams and forests. Over the recent decades, the wild population of Red Tails has been virtually gone because of excessive poaching and changes in landscapes caused by population growth. But booming aquaculture business means that this species is still alive. It is now listed as critically endangered.

Take care

The Red Tail Sharks are pretty simple and easy to care about since you know how basic they are. They’re pretty sturdy and withstand a decent number of water parameters. But if you have one in an adequate tank, you will experience a problem. Learn all of your basics to get started on the right path. Red Tail Sharks are pretty simple to keep as well as can be held under normal water circumstances. They are easier to maintain in massive systems.

Tank Size

The recommended tank is 75 gallons. Even though they are not monsters, the fish are very active and require a lot of space for their swim. As semi-aggressive species, the area helps reduce the possibility of aggressiveness toward others community freshwater fish. It is highly recommended to increase the size of your tank significantly if you want to try to keep two of them in the same tank. To get more information, follow this article.

Tank requirements

Moderate water flow is needed to recreate the natural habitat for the red tail black shark. For the substrate, use gravel, fine sand, or big rocks. Live plants add value to aquariums. They might eat algae in stones and glass, but they leave plants unharmed. Putting a thick layer of gravel as a substrate can be helpful.

Life span

The Average Red Tail Species life span is five to eight years. There might be ways you can help them live happily for the rest of their lives. Buy fish from a reputable seller and breeder. Keep these in an excellent habitat at all times. Keep the fish in an environment suitable for it, provide good quality water and the perfect parameters for the species, and an optimal diet, so your fish will live to the full, always in its splendor. Reduce stress by keeping them with suitable tankmates. We also will cover other issues to keep them healthy in a safe environment and a happy place.

What to put in their tank

The ideal substrate for the red-tailed shark is moderate-sized gravel or pebbles. Many owners say they found their Red tail Shark hiding at plants instead of caves. Some driftwood is a good inclusion that gives variety and places where the fish can hide. Make some open space to swimming in the tank. It can be easy to go overboard as you decorate the tank. This species prefers to inhabit the bottom of the aquarium, which is why choosing the correct substrate is so essential. The fish comes from a large basin in central Thailand whose surface is filled with vegetation, driftwood, and stones. Knowing their natural habitat means you’ll use these items for your fish to get more comfortable at home.

Red Tail Shark Diet and Feeding

Red Tail Shark

Red Tail Sharks are omnivorous, prone to herbivory, and in the wild, the food it consumes will consist of insects, larvae, crustaceans, algae, and small insects. They are also scavengers and will eat much of anything put in their aquarium, including fish pellets, fish flakes, and live and frozen vegetables. The core of their diet should consist of an excellent value pellet or flake. It would be possible to add variety to it by using it with animal and plant origin ingredients. If you feed, them vegetables wash them first. Usually, there’s a considerable number of vegetables they accept well, like broccoli, zucchini, and carrots.

Food and Diet Recommendations

The Red Tail Shark are omnivores who are not picky about things they eat. It eats plants, insects including crustaceans, in its natural habitat. Brine shrimp, bloodworms, or tubifex can be a few of their favorite foods. Some aquarists also suggest including vegetables such as zucchini or cucumber in their diet. After feeding, remove any leftover food from the tank; leftover foods are likely to reduce water quality and rapidly increase the potential for illness.

Compatibility and Tankmates

RedTail has a reputation for sometimes dangerous and aggressive fish. The shark is a territorial fish that will get hostile to other fish if it invades its territory or during feeding activities. Although Red Tail isn’t exactly a suitable candidate for a community tank, you can still have it with other fish. Ideal tankmates must also be solid and fast and spend much of their time in water’s middle and upper levels. Other sharks such as rainbow or blue-tailed are to be avoided. In addition, it is advised not to go for other bottom dwellers like some Cichlids and Plecos.

Red Tail Shark Tank Mates

Since they often get aggressive, you must find the right tankmate for it. Fish who are curious and bold are unfit for them. The possibility of keeping more than one Red Tail Shrimp in one aquarium comes at a cost; Due to their territorial nature, there is a very high probability that these fish will fight if they don’t have a substantial area to explore and hide. For this reason, it is good to have a few hideouts.

Keep Red Tail Sharks with other Red Tail Sharks

For each Red Tail, you add one meter or 20 gallons into the tank is required. You must also keep at least five sharks at the same time. Keeping it in a group prevents the “alpha” from brutally killing each fish. For the most avid fish fan, a huge tank is utopic, hence why we recommend keeping only one individual. This does not mean that we need to keep it in tiny spaces. If you insist on house more than one shark in your aquarium, then do it with caution. Make sure the aquarium is large; Redtail Sharks are exceptionally territorial.

Breeding

There are few reports of successfully breeding Red Tail Sharks in-home aquariums. Artificial breeding techniques are harmful to your fish and can be detrimental. It is best not to try breeding them. We never encourage aquarists to try unless there is a clear path to success, so there’ll be no space-occupying this section. In contrast, the entire world population is obtained from farms. Aquaculture uses manuals and techniques for inducing reproduction, and it also does so naturally, ensuring the species’ prosperity, even if it is practically extinct.

Red Tail Shark Breeding

It’s hardly an example of someone who has produced Red Taileds in an aquarium. It can most likely be a result of luck. They’re extinct in the wild, and the commercial breeding system is left to keep them out of extinction. In many commercial environments, hormones are used to induce mating. As fry develop, they can switch color from silver to brown before dark. At about ten weeks old, their red tail begins to grow. After a male fertilizes the egg, it takes 40-60 hours to hatch the fry. It usually spawns in rock caves.

Disease Potential

Red Tail Black Sharks don’t have a species-specific disease, but they can develop other common freshwater diseases. The likelihood of such an event goes down significantly if you provide them with great care and perfect water conditions. We recommend that you focus your efforts on avoiding problems keeping a maintenance schedule instead of treating it. If your fish is unlucky enough to get sick, you need to find out what disease is affecting them and quickly come up with a solution. Till then, feed your Red Tail Shark a good source of quality food and provide your fish with suitable habitat and water conditions. You also could spend minutes inspecting the water and the fish behavior every day.

Where can I find a Red Tail Black Shark?

Your local fish store may have enough of these fish to supply for everyone. Take your time to choose the right fish from the tank store. Bright eyes and colors, correct and constant movements, and no visible parasites are signs to look for. If the fish is feeling stressed, strange, or looking, you must give up the purchase and go to other stores; all of the tanks should be visibly clean, and the fishes healthy, look for fallen or lying fish, as well as dead fish in hard-to-reach places. A tiny alga on the walls doesn’t mean anything, but dirt on the substrate is a red light. If you come across this type of treatment or carelessness in a fish shop, talk to the responsible and file your complaint. They will be happy to hear candid feedback from their customers and turn the situation around. You should inspect all tanks to ensure cleanliness and safety to purchase. You can also order it on the internet, on specialized online shops.

Conclusion

Red Tail Sharks are beautiful freshwater fish and will continue to be popular in the aquarium for quite some time. Their simple design and attractive appeal make them a good choice for broad-ranging experience levels. The only semi-tricky part of owning one is dealing with their aggressiveness (and this should be only important if you plan on keeping them in a community tank). We hope this guide helps you to understand the care of Redtail Shark.

Best Freshwater Aquarium Sharks | Aquarium Hunter

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If you’re interested in sharks, you’ve probably wondered if you could have one as a pet.

Can you have a shark as a pet? While the ocean swim varieties are too large for hobby tanks, there are many shark species that are suitable for freshwater aquariums and ponds. We’ve rounded up the most popular species and created this detailed maintenance guide to help you design the best tank for your freshwater aquarium sharks.

While it is nearly impossible to have a real shark as a pet, there are many freshwater aquarium sharks that thrive in a home aquarium.

Technically, these fish are not real sharks.

They are large shark-like fish that normally belong to the catfish or carp family.

That said, they often look and act like sharks, which is how they earned their name.

We’ve put together a comprehensive list of the best freshwater sharks to keep in your tank. Some are big, some small, but they are all great!

Best 10 Types of Freshwater Aquarium Sharks

Best Freshwater Aquarium Sharks Review

1. Bala Shark

Freshwater Aquarium Sharks

Young Bala sharks are only about 3 inches long, but don’t let their small size fool you. On average, they grow to about 12 inches (30 cm) in length in adulthood, although they can reach up to 20 inches.

Bales need an aquarium that is at least 75 gallons and at least four feet long to give them enough room to stretch their fins. Bullets, like most freshwater sharks, thrive in a large tank, so it’s a good idea to buy the largest you can afford.

Taking care of them is quite easy. They are not picky eaters, but they are omnivores and love a variety of foods.

A good idea about bullet sharks is that they are not particularly aggressive, so you should not be too careful when choosing tankmates.

Make sure what you choose is too big to fit in the muzzle of a bullet and not too aggressive.

2. Red Tail Shark

Freshwater Aquarium Sharks

The red-tailed shark has a very distinctive appearance. The sleek black body and bright red tail really stand out in a planted tank.

In fact, their preferred environment is one with plenty of hiding places among plants, rocks and driftwood, so a planted tank is the perfect place for them.

One thing to keep in mind is that these sharks don’t like each other, so you can only have one in your tank.

Also avoid other sharks and catfish, as well as fish with long fins. Red tail sharks are very territorial and can be quite aggressive.

These sharks are not picky eaters, but they do like a variety of meats and plant foods. A flake-based diet pellet is fine, but adding a few brine shrimp several times a week will make your red tail very happy.

3. Iridescent Shark

Freshwater Aquarium Sharks

If you’re looking for a shark that’s, well, giant, the iridescent shark is about 3 inches long as a juvenile, but it can grow to over 50 inches.

To keep an iridescent shark, you need an aquarium of at least 300 gallons.

Under the right conditions, iridescent sharks will live up to 20 years if cared for properly. While it may be tempting to keep them in a smaller tank, it’s not a good idea. This pet is definitely an investment and is not for everyone.

While iridescent sharks are technically catfish, they don’t feed on the bottom. They are very active and need a lot of space to swim at different levels in the aquarium.

Iridescent sharks are very gentle, but they will eat any fish they can fit in their mouths, and because they grow so big they will eventually be able to eat almost anything. If you really want tank mates, try aluminum foil skewers or plecos.

4. Silver Apollo Shark

Freshwater Aquarium Sharks

Silver Apollos are actually schools of fish that are quite passive and grow to about 6 inches (15 cm) in length.

Since they like company, it is best to keep them in groups of 5 or more. They are fast swimmers and can even jump out of the tank, so make sure to keep it covered.

Although they are easy to feed and peaceful in nature, silver apoli can be difficult to maintain as they are very sensitive to pH changes and even the slightest amount of ammonia and nitrites in water. They require a strong filter and a 25% weekly water change.

These freshwater sharks are quite easy to live with as long as their fellow residents are not small enough to be eaten.

While not aggressive, they are fast and live close to the surface, so they will compete for food and may prevent slower fish from getting enough to eat.

5. Rainbow Shark

Freshwater Aquarium Sharks

Another freshwater shark that is actually a catfish is the rainbow shark. They are a great addition to a planted tank.

Since they like a lot of hiding places, you should give them lots of dense plants, caves and burrows for them to explore.

Rainbow sharks are very territorial and should not be kept with other sharks, especially red tail sharks. If you’re looking for aquarium mates, try fish larger than them with a similar temperament. They should not be overly aggressive, but still be able to defend themselves.

Rainbows will chase peaceful fish, so avoid them at all costs.

Although rainbows prefer the bottom of the tank, they have tender points around their mouths that can be easily injured.

Choosing the right substrate is essential to avoid injury. Only use a sandy or slippery surface as larger, rougher rocks can cause some damage.

These fish tend to stay at the bottom of the tank, but will explore everywhere. Believe it or not, they are actually very good jumpers, so make sure to keep the top of the tank covered.

6. Violet Blushing Shark

Freshwater Aquarium Sharks

Unlike other freshwater aquarium sharks, the Violet Blushing Shark is quite passive. It does not show territorial behavior as you would see it in other species. As a result, they do well in community tanks.
That said, you should still avoid keeping these fish with smaller creatures that they can see for food. They do best with medium sized fish.

Violet blush sharks get their name from their unique appearance. The fish are covered with a silvery white color. You can see some glow on their bodies, but only when they are under powerful lights.

The bodies are transparent, allowing you to see individual organs. The most prominent feature of the shark’s body is the gills. The gills are visible through the body, making it look like a fish is blushing!

Keeping an aquarium in good condition is crucial for these fish. They need stable temperatures between 68 and 78 degrees to stay healthy. That’s not all. The Violet Blushing Shark should also have plenty of room for swimming.

7. Columbian Shark

Freshwater Aquarium Sharks

Here’s a strain that can be quite challenging to care for. The Colombian shark has strict care requirements. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation circulating.

Contrary to popular belief, these are not entirely freshwater sharks. When they are young, they need brackish water to stay healthy. When you set up your aquarium, you should add a little sea salt to make sure the specific gravity is between 1.005 and 1.010.

Colombian sharks also tend to be troublesome when kept with other fish. These are predatory creatures that prey on smaller species of fish. That’s why you want to avoid smaller passive fish.

Another way to prevent predatory behavior is to keep your fish well fed. The Colombian shark thrives on a high-protein diet of live and frozen foods. They also work well with pellets and commercial dry food. However, they prefer live food that they can hunt.

In appearance, these fish are one of the most shark-like species you can get for your tank. They have a large sail-shaped dorsal fin. Their bodies are usually covered in shades of black, gray, and silver.

On the heads of the fish you will notice that they have several pairs of long barbs. These chins are used to navigate their environment and hunt for food.

8. Black Shark

Freshwater Aquarium Sharks

The black shark is covered in black and has that familiar profile that many freshwater sharks share. This includes a huge dorsal fin. When the fish is swimming, the dorsal fin will generally be relatively flat against its rounded body. However, he will also occasionally stand up while the fish is showing off.

The black shark can become very aggressive and predatory. They should not be kept with small fish species. Most aquarists will house them along with other aggressive species that can handle the intimidating nature of the black shark. This includes some types of cichlids.

Interestingly, these fish do not require a pure protein diet. Some proteins are good, but they are omnivores who will eat almost anything. They have a predilection for foods of plant origin. In fact, these fish are known to eat plants.

Therefore, the Black Shark is recommended for tanks that are scarce in the plant department. They do best with plenty of open space for swimming. Many caves are also recommended for them to have places to rest.

9. Roseline Shark

Freshwater Aquarium Sharks

These flashy fish are absolutely amazing! The Roseline Shark is covered in several bright colors that look great against a natural background. You see red, black and gold stripes. Green and yellow spots are also quite common.
Like all freshwater sharks, these fish have a pronounced dorsal fin. In the case of Roseline Sharks, the dorsal fin is accented with a vibrant fiery red stripe.

Roseline sharks are actually part of the baleen family and are some of the smallest freshwater aquarium sharks you can get. However, this can be good when it comes to temperament.

For the most part, these sharks will not be a problem in terms of aggression. They are quite peaceful and pay no attention to other fish in the community. In groups of four to six, the fish will look even better and show playful behavior.

Roseline sharks can tolerate a wide variety of conditions. They can stay healthy in temperatures between 60 and 77 degrees, although somewhere in between is preferred. What they do need is a strong current. Fish are naturally found in rivers and streams, so it is essential to replicate them with a powerful pump.

10. Harlequin Shark

Freshwater Aquarium Sharks

Known scientifically as Labeo cyclorhynchus, harlequin sharks are an interesting addition to freshwater tanks. They are quite beautiful. However, the fish is known to lead a very solitary life.
They don’t like to be around other fish. In fact, they are known to be very territorial against similar looking species. That means you can’t keep them in groups or with other freshwater sharks.

However, you can house them with some fish if you have enough space. The harlequin shark is a bottom-dwelling fish and spends most of its time in hiding. Therefore, they can be kept with larger species that stay towards the top of the water column.

What is a Freshwater Aquarium Shark?

Domestic sharks are not real sharks, but fish that resemble sharks. There is a wide variety of shark-like fish that make great aquarium pets, and some are even great for community tanks! These small species of freshwater sharks have some similarities with each other:

  • Mini sharks have long torpedo-shaped bodies and erect, prominent dorsal fins. It is also common to see deeply forked flukes (tails) on freshwater sharks.
  • They are usually members of the catfish or carp family and act as omnivorous scavengers, eating plant matter such as algae and other animals.
  • Sharks are generally active and entertaining pets that like to swim in strong currents, and many species will congregate if kept in groups.

 

How to Setup a Shark Aquarium?

When deciding which freshwater shark is your preference, you should research the specific requirements for the aquarium.

That said, there are a few basic things most of these freshwater sharks have in common when it comes to their environment.

Tank size and environment

One of the most important things to consider when it comes to a shark tank is size. These are large fish, very large fish in some cases, and you will need a tank of at least 100 gallons. If you choose a larger variety, you may be looking for a 300 gallon tank.

While you’ll need to research the specific shark you’re raising, most species prefer heavily planted tanks with plenty of hiding places.

Most freshwater shark species originate from major rivers in Central America, South America, and Southeast Asia, and you should try to mimic that environment.

Artificial plants will work, but live plants are better. Be sure to add plenty of rocks, wood, and caves along the bottom of the tank where they can hide and establish their own territory.

Part of setting up an aquarium is the other fish in the community and it is worth mentioning again that freshwater sharks should only be kept with fish that are too large to eat and of uniform character.

Water Requirements

Most freshwater sharks can tolerate a fairly wide pH range with temperatures between 74 and 80 degrees F. There are some specific requirements for each shark.

For example, Colombian sharks prefer brackish water and silver apollo sharks are very sensitive to ammonia.

Filtration is very important, as is water change. You should change 10% of the water weekly (25% with silver apoli) and be sure to use an aquarium vacuum cleaner to clean up uneaten food and other debris.

What to Feed Freshwater Aquarium Sharks?

Freshwater sharks are omnivores and are not picky about what they eat. For most species, their diet consists of flakes, granules, or freeze-dried foods.

Pickled shrimp, vegetables and some live foods should be given several times a week to add some variety.

If you’re not sure what to add to your diet, try seaweed wafers, insect larvae, crustaceans, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. As for veggies, add some spinach, lettuce, zucchini, and peas a few times a week to keep your immune system strong.

Keep in mind that most freshwater sharks don’t hesitate to eat or attempt to eat their fellow residents, so make sure you do your best to satisfy their appetites.

How to Feed Aquarium Shark?

Most freshwater sharks feed on the bottom. Some will come up for pellets and flakes from time to time, but for the most part they will eat what sinks to the bottom of the tank.

Feeding should be done 2 to 3 times a day. Feed your sharks all they can eat in 5 minutes.

If there is any food left at the end of this period, you are probably feeding your sharks too much. Be sure to clean up everything to keep ammonia levels under control.

One of the important things to keep in mind when feeding a freshwater shark is that they are quite aggressive and will easily prevent less aggressive fish from eating enough.

This is another reason why it is so important to have the right roommates for a freshwater shark.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve seen the full list of popular freshwater aquarium sharks, it’s time to pick the ones you’re most interested in. While some of them might be too large to consider for your setup at home, many of the smaller sharks on this list are totally viable.

No matter what your level of experience is (or the amount of time you wish to spend), there should be a species for you! If you have any questions about a species on this list, we’re more than happy to help you out. Freshwater sharks are some of our favorite fish!

10 Best Freshwater Aquarium Sharks – Types of, Setup & Care Guide

Trevor Aquatic Life (info & tips), Blog, Freshwater Aquarium Sharks (Care Guides), Freshwater Fish (info and tips), Info and Tips , , 4,599 Comments
10 Best Freshwater Aquarium Sharks – Types of, Setup & Care Guide

Best Freshwater Aquarium Sharks: If you are interested in sharks, you have probably wondered if you want one as a pet.

While keeping a real shark as a pet is nearly impossible, there are plenty of freshwater aquarium sharks that thrive in a home aquarium.

Technically speaking, these fish are not true sharks.

They are large, shark-like fish that normally belong to the catfish or carp family.

I mean, they look and often behave like sharks, and that’s how they earned their name.

Interest in freshwater aquarium sharks has increased rapidly in recent years. People can’t have enough!

It is great to have a shark no matter what type it is. These iconic fish have been an integral part of our relationship with water for hundreds of years.

If you see a freshwater shark swimming in your aquarium, it will never age.

So we did the following:

We have compiled a complete list of the best freshwater sharks you can keep in your aquarium. Some are big, some small, but all are amazing!

10 Types of Best Freshwater Aquarium Sharks

1. Bala Shark

Young Bala sharks are only about 5 cm long, but don’t be fooled by their small size. On average, they become about a foot long in adulthood, although they can reach up to 20 inches.

Balas need an aquarium that is at least 75 gallons in length and at least 4 feet in length so that they have enough space to stretch their fins. Balas, like most freshwater sharks, thrive in a large pool. So it’s a good idea to buy the biggest one you can afford.

Taking care of them is pretty easy. They are not picky eaters, but they are omnivores and like a variety of foods.

A good thought about bala sharks is that they are not particularly aggressive, so you don’t have to be too careful when choosing tank mates.

Just make sure that everything you choose is too big to fit in a Bala’s mouth and not too aggressive.

 

2. Red Tail Shark

Red-tailed sharks look very characteristic. The slender black body and the bright red tail are particularly noticeable in a planted tank.

In fact, their preferred environment is an environment with lots of hiding places between plants, rocks, and driftwood, so a planted tank is the perfect place for them.

One thing to keep in mind is that these sharks don’t like each other, so you can only have one in your aquarium.

Avoid other sharks and catfish, as well as fish with long fins. Red-tailed sharks are very territorial and can be very aggressive.

These sharks are not fussy about food, but like a variety of meat and plant foods. A flake-based pellet is fine, but if you add prawns a couple of times a week, your red tail stays very happy.

 

3. Columbian Shark

The Colombian shark is actually a big catfish and has the characteristic tall fins and long whiskers you expect.

You need an aquarium that is at least 75 gallons in size, and it must be configured to resemble your natural environment with lots of plants and stones.

Colombian sharks are not the easiest to hold and may not be ideal for beginners. They prefer brackish water and should switch to salty water in adulthood. Teenagers are approximately 3 inches long, but can reach 20 inches or more.

These fish are predators and eat anything in the tank that is small enough to fit in their mouths. They actually have toxic dorsal fins, so be very careful when servicing the tank.

 

4. Rainbow Shark

These creatures are sometimes called ruby ​​sharks or red fin sharks and give each freshwater tank a nice pop of color. Like the red-tailed shark, rainbow sharks also have a fiery red tail that stands out against a natural background. However, these fish also have bright red fins.

The fins are semi-transparent so you can see the sensitive rays. Each individual fin is red. Combine this color with the dark black tone of your body and you will have a very intimidating fish.

Rainbow sharks are generally not recommended for beginners. The reason for this is aggression. These are very territorial fish that are known to attack other creatures in the tank. It is an interesting behavioral trait that is not normally found in nature.

Despite their aggressive behavior, rainbow sharks can keep up with other fish. They are bottom dwellers, so you can support them with fish species that cling to the top of the water column. Assault is still possible, so you should always be careful.

 

5. Iridescent Shark

If you are looking for a giant shark, the ravishing shark is about 3 inches long as a cub, but can grow up to 50 inches.

To maintain a stunning shark, you need an aquarium with a capacity of at least 300 gallons.

In the right conditions, stunning sharks live with proper care for up to 20 years. It may be tempting to keep them in a smaller tank, but it is not a good idea. This pet is definitely an investment and not for everyone.

Although dazzling sharks are technically catfish, they are not bottom eaters. They are very active and need a lot of space to swim in the tank at different levels.

Iridescent sharks are very squishy, but they eat whatever fish are left in their mouths, and since they get so big, they can finally eat almost anything. If you really want tankmates, try spikes or tin foil spikes.

 

6. Silver Apollo Shark

Silver Apollos are actually school fish that are quite passive and grow up to 6 inches in length.

Because they like company, they are best kept in groups of 5 or more people. They are fast swimmers and can even jump out of the tank. So make sure it’s covered.

Although silver apollos are easy to feed and peaceful, keeping them can be difficult because they are very sensitive to changes in pH and even to the least amount of ammonia and nitrites in the water. They require a strong filter and 25% water changes every week.

These freshwater sharks are easy enough to live as long as their tankmates are not small enough to be eaten.

Although they are not aggressive, they are fast and live close to the surface, competing for food, and possibly preventing slower fish from eating enough.

 

7. Violet Blushing Shark

Unlike other freshwater aquarium sharks, the Violet Blushing Shark is quite passive. It does not show a territorial behavior as you would see it with other species. As a result, they do well in community tanks.

Still, you should avoid keeping these fish with smaller creatures that may consider them food. They are best suited for medium-sized fish.

Violet Blushing Sharks takes its name from its unique appearance. The fish are silvery white in color. You can see some glitter on their bodies, but only when they’re under some strong lights.

The bodies are transparent so you can see the individual organs. The most striking feature of the shark body is the gills. The gills are visible through the body and make it look like the fish is turning red!

It is important that these fish have a well-maintained tank. You need stable temperatures between 68 and 78 degrees to stay healthy. Thats not all. The purple blush shark should also have plenty of room to swim.

The biggest mistake new aquarists make with this species is filling the tank with too many decorations. Plants, driftwood, and rocks are important for making fish comfortable. But that’s a lot of open space for swimming! You must find the right balance to keep the purple blush shark in good shape.

 

8. Columbian Shark

Here’s a species that can be challenging to maintain. The Colombian shark has some strict maintenance requirements. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation out there.

Contrary to popular belief, these sharks are not freshwater sharks. As teens, they need brackish water to stay healthy. When setting up the aquarium, you need to add a little sea salt to make sure the specific gravity is between 1,005 and 1,010.

Colombian sharks also tend to be troublesome when kept with other fish. These are predatory creatures that hunt smaller species of fish. Therefore, you should avoid smaller passive fish.

Another way to prevent predatory behavior is to feed the fish well. The Colombian shark lives on a diet rich in protein with live and frozen food. They are also suitable for commercially available dry food and pellets. However, they prefer live food that they can hunt.

 

9. Black Shark

The black shark is a large species of fish with a semi-aggressive nature. Originally found throughout Malaysia, these fish are very popular due to their forbidden appearance.

The black shark is all black and has the familiar profile that many freshwater sharks share. This includes a massive dorsal fin. When the fish is swimming, the dorsal fin is usually relatively flat against its rounded body. However, it will also be high from time to time when the fish brags.

The black shark can become very aggressive and predatory. They should not be kept with small fish species. Most aquarists will host them along with other aggressive species that can handle the intimidating nature of the black shark. This includes some types of cichlids.

Interestingly, these fish do not need a diet based on pure protein. Some proteins are good, but they are omnivorous that eat almost everything. They have a penchant for plant-based foods. In fact, these fish are known to eat plants.

Therefore, the black shark is recommended for tanks that are scarce in the factory department. It is best to do this with plenty of open space for swimming. Many caves are also recommended so you can rest.

 

10. Roseline Shark

These eye-catching fish are absolutely stunning! The Roseline Shark comes in various bright colors that look great in a natural setting. You will see red, black and gold stripes. Green and yellow spots are also quite common.

Like all freshwater sharks, these fish have a pronounced dorsal fin. At Roseline Sharks, the dorsal fin is accented with a bright and fiery red stripe.

Roseline sharks belong to the beard family and are among the smallest freshwater aquarium sharks you can get. However, this can be a good thing when it comes to temperament.

For the most part, these sharks will not be a problem with aggression. They are quite peaceful and do not pay attention to other fish in the community. In groups of four to six people, the fish fair improves even more and shows a playful behavior.

 

Conclusion

With their large size and physical characteristics, freshwater sharks are an interesting pet for any aquarium enthusiast who wants to beat them.

Taking care of a freshwater shark isn’t particularly difficult, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. These fish grow very large, 6 to 50 inches when fully grown.

They need large tanks that will give them the space they need to grow to their fullest potential.

Still, with the right tank and careful planning, you can create a beautiful home for your freshwater shark and a few tank mates that everyone will be talking about