Iridescent Shark Lifespan Iridescent Sharks can live for 15 to 20 years in captivity , but the sad truth is the majority of young fish only survive for a few years due to inadequate conditions. This is like a pair of extra roll-up fins under their body. If you have 1 male & 1 female you should at least add another female. They can live for up to 10 years. They swim side by side with their bodies pressed together at the same speed and do laps of the tank. These guys are not friendly fish, regardless of what anyone says. It is generally a good idea to purchase five or six Bala sharks from the pet store and to observe them for signs of mating behavior. Generally, the female is smaller than the female. The Bala Shark Balantiocheilus melanopterus is also called the Silver Shark, Tricolor Shark, or Shark Minnow, but don't be fooled by the word "shark." Distribution. Males are more streamlined in shape, although the difference might be subtle. It’s found in most of the major oceans and the world. Appearance. Clown Loaches. But the easiest way to tell them apart is to look for claspers. During breeding season sexually mature female Bala shark develop a noticeably thicker more rounded underbelly than male Bala sharks. For spawning you should prepare an aquarium of at least 65 gallons with a temperature around 77°F. Greg White: One of the most popular shark species out there is the Great White Shark. The Bala Shark is a relatively large Southeast Asian native freshwater fishery. The appearance of the Bala Shark is quite similar to that of a regular shark – although, of course, it is much smaller. Rainbow Shark; Butterfly Fish; Royal Gramma; Pipefish; Silver Arowana; Home. T. Talisman Fish Crazy. In this guide, we’ll discuss all of the ends and out of keeping a Bala shark, from their diet to tank set-ups and even to tank mates. Remember they need plenty of free space in the tank so it’s better to place any plants or decorations … Postage and packaging . Relevance. Keep at least 5 or 6 tinfoil barbs since it is a naturally schooling fish. Rob. Bala sharks are an amazing fish and are easy to care for, you just have to make sure you have the space that is required to house these fish. The seller hasn't specified a postage method to United States. Initially described by Bleeker in 1851, the bala shark is native to the lakes and clear streams of Malaysia and the Philippines, where it may live for several years and grow to an impressive 14 inches long. Breeding Behavior . Updated May 13, 2020 Author: Mike - FishLore Admin Social Media: The Bala Shark is also known as the Silver Shark and is a growing favorite among tropical fish hobbyists. These fish are known to jump out of the tank from time to time, so they are best in a tank with a lid or some sort of cover over the top of the tank. An aquarium of at least 65 gallons with a temperature around 77°F should be prepared for spawning. And it is not too frustrating to tell male from female. The fish may get aggressive and stressed if kept alone. Males have a pair of claspers, which are used for mating. And it's not too hard to tell male from female. Has anyone else seen this kind of behaviour? December 28, 2018 Robert Freshwater Fish 3. Although, they are active during most hours once they reach a level of security. Bala Shark And Angelfish Compatibility? I have a pair of bala sharks and this week they've begun swimming around in what I can only describe as a mating dance. The male bala fin is right now and pointy, and he's many times slimmer than the female. These fish are very peaceful fish, and they tend to mind their own business in the tank. Then the male will swim upstream so that he can release his sperm, then the pushing current will take the sperm and will lead it over the eggs. The range of pH levels of such tanks will be between 6.5 and 7.8. Bala Shark. These tend to be small and are usually one color, and are much larger than the anal fin. Thanks . Gouramis are a group of freshwater fish from the families Osphronemidae, Helostomatidae and Anabantidae. The temperature has to be between 72-82°F (22.2-27.8°C), but 77°F (24°C) is considered as the ideal water temperature for them. The male bala fin is straight and pointy, and he is usually slimmer than the female. The bala shark is quite a large freshwater fish species that can grow to up to 12 inches. When a female is ready to lay eggs, her belly looks rounder than normal. This species is not a true shark, but is commonly so called because of its torpedo-shaped body and large fins. 2- Golden Gouramis 1-Female. Do Bala sharks eat snails? Your tank is way too small. However, this fish is somewhat social and, unlike most other aquarium shark species, prefers the company of its own kind. They are nippy and absolutely detest even the slightest sign of weakness. These fish also have two ventral fins. This fish isn't a shark at all though. During the spawning period, the female bears eggs in her belly. Set Up the Habitat. When we entered the water we had to wait because there … These fish have single tall dorsal fins and long, slender bodies that look somewhat like torpedos. How do you tell the difference between a male and female shark? It's much easier than you probably think. The freshwater fish you are referring to is actually a Bala Shark. Under regular circumstances, there are no visible differences between the male and female Bala shark except that the male is often longer than the female. I am not surprised that one of them attacks the weaker fish. Cash on COLLECTION pls . Generally, the fish becomes sexually mature at the age of 3 years. Additionally, during the spawning season, your female Bala sharks may appear to be a bit rounder or stockier than the males. Male Bala Sharks are growing slightly larger than females and female fish tend to have a rounder abdomen. It’s about 15 to 20 feet long, on average, and weighs about 4,000 to 7,000 pounds. From time to time I hear well intentioned but rather cross advice to new aquarists, who are told something like, "You really shouldn't get Bala Sharks because they will soon grow to 14", and it isn't fair to keep them in a little aquarium." Does anyone keep these fish together? Male Bala Sharks grow slightly bigger than females, and female fish tend to have a rounder belly. In general, they are better suited to larger tanks of 150 gallons or even larger. Know these in detail: Temperature. Miss Wiggle Practically perfect in every way. Female bala sharks often have fuller, rounder bellies than males. Bala Shark, Silver Shark - Balantiocheilos melanopterus. 5 Answers. The Bala shark is a welcome option for medium-sized tanks, as this fish reaches around 15 inches (38 centimeters) upon maturity. How can you tell the difference between a male and female Bala shark? the female bala shark has a fin that's no longer as pointy, and curves somewhat on the astounding. So, how to understand whether you buy female or male Bala Shark? 1-Bala Shark. For a community with 3 Bala Sharks, you’ll need: 150 gallon (or larger) aquarium with stand; Hood or cover/lid Any … SILVER SHARK TROPICAL FISH LIVE BALA SHARK STUNNING FISH. Joined Mar 10, 2007 Messages 2,114 Reaction score 0 Location Manchester, UK. This fish's name is derived solely from its rigid, upright triangular dorsal fin and torpedo-shaped body, which make it superficially resemble that ferocious and predatory ocean fish. The female bala shark has slightly rounded body. 18 Most Beautiful Gourami Fish and How to Care for Them 18 Most Beautiful Gourami Fish and How to Care for Them. For Bala Shark, water parameters need to be strictly maintained, and it sometimes becomes difficult for the aquarists. 8. The Bala Shark is not really a shark at all. Bala Shark Aquarium Set-Up: Product And Equipment List. Favourite answer. So i have a few balas but i want to know if u guys know how to tell one from boy to girl. The female bala shark has a fin that is not as pointy, and curves slightly at the top. While kept in captivity the fish will only be able to reproduce at age 3 and when they are at least 5in (13cm) long. Mr Maier, 48, said: 'Deep Blue is a very large female shark and she is known to be found in Mexico. Also, the female is usually a larger, rounder fish. It belongs in the Cyprinidae family. This is the one fish that I … Bala shark is an egg layer and in captivity, little is known about breeding. This means that one Bala would feel comfortable in a 75-gallon tank. additionally, the female is usually a greater, rounder fish. Fish tanks too small for your bala shark may contribute to swim bladder conditions. The male Bala shark tends to grow a little larger than females. Contact the seller- opens in a new window or tab and request post to your location. Whereas the female is a bit smaller and has a body type that is more round. Common Name: Bala shark (also known as tricolor shark, tricolor shark minnow, silver shark, or shark minnow) Scientific Name: Balantiocheilos melanopterus. Keeping Multiple Bala Sharks . This is my new 20 gallon fish tank with my bala shark and betta. Apr 4, 2007 #1 Are balas and angelfish compatible or do balas tend toward fin-nipping? I'm convinced it's not aggression as neither shark tries to pull away at any time. pH Level . Bob, even if let’s put aside the fact that the fish can grow to 12 inches, still it can’t be kept in a tank that small due to the fact that they are active fish and need space to move plus they are schooling fish that need to be kept in groups minimum of 3 or more. Join Date: Apr 2006. It is also the largest predatory shark in the world. The Bala Shark will get spooked easy and are a rather jumpy fish, they are very sketchy during their first few weeks in a new environment. The bala shark, Balantiocheilos melanopterus, also known as the tricolor shark, tricolor sharkminnow, silver shark, or shark minnow, is a fish of the family Cyprinidae, and is one of the two species in the genus Balantiocheilos. You should have a ratio of 1 male for every 2 females. Male sharks tend to be smaller than females. The Bala shark makes an ideal tankmate for the tinfoil barbs because they are both large and non-aggressive. The ideal breeding tank for Bala Shark is the ones with the temperature around 75 degrees Fahrenheit and fewer plants inside. Answer Save. Keep in mind, you’ll need other products for a breeding or quarantine set-up. 2-pictus catfish. I wondered, if this 14" Bala Shark was really the same species, and I wondered how old this huge Bala Shark might be, and where it came from. In the wild when they existed, the female Bala Shark would scatter her eggs and then fertilize them externally. Postage cost can't be calculated. Medium sized at shop £9. how to tell from bala shark male or female Become a Supporting Member Become a Preferred Vendor: General Freshwater General Freshwater fish discussions Thread Tools: Display Modes: 04-24-2006, 05:23 PM #1: bala-shark . The bare bottom aquarium is the ideal place to … Posts: 16 how to tell from bala shark male or female . 1 decade ago. Here’s a comprehensive list of the supplies and equipment you’ll need to start your shark tank. If you look in the livebearers section I believe there is a pinned topic on how to sex your platies. Clown Loach . Freshwater Fish. The bala sharks are a definite no-no. It’s more obvious when mating time approaches. There’s also an albino Iridescent Shark morph; they look pinkish as juveniles and lack the black stripes, but mature into a beautiful white-colored adult shark! Each fin has yellow stripes with black edging. You can only see it when they grow up (male ones tend to grow larger, and the females have round), or ask the professional breeders. The freshwater fish you're bearing on is truthfully a Bala Shark. Seller assumes all responsibility for this listing. What should I do? Fulfilling these requirements is the best way to help your Bala shark have a long and happy life. The most popular of all the freshwater sharks is the unmistakable bala shark Balantiocheilos melanopterus.