Bala Shark – Silver Streaks
Originally from Indonesia and Southeast Asia, these fish are referred to as “sharks” because of their torpedo shaped body and their large fins, and not because of any resemblance to their more bloodthirsty namesake.
In fact, quite the opposite, these fish are quite perfect for larger community aquariums, as long as you ensure that none of the fish are small enough to fit into your Bala’s mouth. Thanks to their extremely swift movements, the Bala shark’s are difficult for other fish to pick on.
The Bala shark has a silver coloured body and black margins on its dorsal, caudal, anal and pelvic fins. The body shape is slender and convex, and the dorsal fin is shaped like a triangle. The mouth is somewhat downfacing and without barbles. The Bala shark prefers be kept in groups of five or more. 
Hardy and undemanding, these fish tolerate temperature changes, pH changes, and other factors to which other fish may be sensitive. Moreover, they are not very susceptible to Ich or other fish diseases, which makes them ideal for the beginner. In fact,they can warn you about an outbreak of Ich. If the Bala shark tries to peel of its scales against rocks and other aquarium decoration, an outbreak of Ich will most likely soon take place in the aquarium. You would be well advised to start treating all your fish with Ich medication as soon as you notice this behaviour.
Aquarium setup
These fish require a covered aquarium as they are skilled jumpers. Be sure you don’t have any sharp objects in your aquarium that could injure your fish, as they are prone to darting around. Use live plants when you decorate the aquarium, but leave larger areas open for swimming. When placed in a new aquarium it might take a few days until the Bala sharks feel comfortable in their new home. You will also need a BIG tank, as these fish can grow upto 15 inches without breaking into a sweat.
Feeding your bala shark
Being ominvorous, they eat just about anything, including vitamin enriched flake foods, pellets, frozen, freeze dried and live foods with the key being a varied diet. Watch out for the clicking noise they sometimes make while eating. Being scavengers they also eat any left over food from earlier feedings in the aquarium apart from keeping the algae growth in check.
Fishy Facts:
Common names: Bala Shark, Tricolor Shark, Silver Shark, Shark Minnow
Origin: South East Asia (Thailand, Borneo and Sumatra)
Scientific name: Balantiocheilos Melanopterus
Caring: Easy to Medium
Tank setup: Lots of swimming space
Size: Can grow upto 15 inches
Lifespan : 8 – 10 years
Temperature: 72ºF to 84ºF (22-29°C) range
pH: Slightly Alkaline to neutral
Breeding: Egglayers
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