Bala shark — printable fact sheet
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Bala shark
Balantiocheilos melanopterus
The Bala shark, also known as the tricolor shark or silver shark, is a striking freshwater fish native to Southeast Asia. With its torpedo-shaped body, large eyes, and distinctive black-edged fins, it is often mistaken for a true shark, though it belongs to the minnow family. Ba…
Did you know?
- Bala sharks can reach up to 35 cm (about 14 inches) in length, making them much larger than most aquarium owners expect.
- Bala sharks can leap out of the water when startled, a behavior known as 'skittish jumping.' Despite their name and appearance, they are not related to true sharks but instead belong to the carp family. They are schooling fish and thrive best in groups when kept in captivity.
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