10 Best Bala Shark Tank Mates
Discover the top Bala Shark tank mates that will perfectly complement your vibrant aquatic world. Providing them with great company, enhancing their natural behavior, and maintaining a harmonious environment are essential for their well-being.
Continue reading to unveil the best aquatic friends your Bala Sharks will love, ensuring a lively and balanced thriving underwater community.
Blood Parrot Cichlid
The Blood Parrot Cichlid is an eye-catching and colorful fish that can be a great addition to a Bala Shark aquarium. However, it’s worth noting that while their striking appearance and social behavior make them appealing tank mates, they do require specific care and attention.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30-55 gallons (113-208 liters)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, should be provided with a mix of commercial fish food, live or frozen foods, and vegetables such as spinach or lettuce.
- Adult Size: 8-10 inches (20-25 cm)
Blood Parrot Cichlids are known for their unique appearance, with round bodies, bright orange-red coloration, and small mouths. This hybrid fish can be sociable with other larger fish species but may become territorial, so it’s important to keep an eye on them to prevent conflicts.
To ensure your Bala Sharks and Blood Parrot Cichlids peacefully coexist, provide ample swimming space and plenty of hiding spots within the tank.
Clown Loaches
Clown Loaches are an energetic and playful addition to a Bala Shark tank. Their playful demeanor and social nature make them delightful companions, and they are a perfect choice for adding extra energy to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 75 gallons (284 liters) or larger
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful and active
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feed them a mix of live or frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp, and high-quality pellet or flake foods.
- Adult Size: 12 inches (30 cm) in the wild, but often smaller in captivity
Although Clown Loaches share a peaceful temperament with Bala Sharks, it is essential to provide them with a spacious tank due to their size and activity levels. They prefer having spots to retreat, so incorporating caves or hiding spots within your tank will help them feel safe and comfortable.
Clown Loaches also thrive in groups, so it is advisable to keep them in schools of three or more for a more harmonious tank environment.
Common Pleco
Common Plecos, sometimes referred to as suckerfish or algae eaters, can be fantastic tank mates for Bala Sharks as they help maintain a clean and healthy aquarium environment with their impressive algae-eating abilities.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 150 gallons (567 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, they consume algae, detritus, and leftover food, but should also be given high-quality sinking pellets or wafers, and occasional vegetables, such as cucumber or zucchini.
- Adult Size: Up to 24 inches (60 cm) long
Being one of the largest aquarium fish, Common Plecos require a sizable tank to accommodate their growth. Although they are generally peaceful, they may become territorial if the tank is overcrowded. It is essential to provide an adequately sized aquarium and hiding spots, like driftwood or caves, for them to feel secure.
Common Plecos are nocturnal, so providing a dimly lit environment will promote their natural behavior, allowing your Bala Sharks to have a fascinating and efficient tank mate.
Angelfish
Angelfish are elegant and majestic fish that can create a mesmerizing environment when paired with Bala Sharks. Their elegant fins and variety of colors and patterns can bring a sense of harmony and beauty to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 3 out of 5
- Tank Size: 55 gallons (208 liters) or larger
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, they require a balanced diet of high-quality flakes, pellets, live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, and occasional plant-based meals.
- Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length and 8 inches (20 cm) in height
Being cichlids, Angelfish can be territorial and may show aggression during spawning, so it’s essential to ensure enough space and hiding spots for both them and Bala Sharks. Angelfish also thrive in well-planted aquariums with calm water, making it necessary to balance the tank’s layout for your Bala Sharks’ swimming needs.
Though they are not an ideal match for beginner aquarists, Angelfish can be excellent tank mates for Bala Sharks with careful observation and care.
Kissing Gourami
Kissing Gouramis get their name from their unique “kissing” behavior, which is actually a form of establishing dominance among themselves. Their charming interactions can bring a captivating dynamic to a Bala Shark tank.
- Compatibility: 3 out of 5
- Tank Size: 40 gallons (151 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Generally peaceful, but may display mild aggression
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, they require a balanced diet, including high-quality flake food, algae or plant-based foods, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or bloodworms.
- Adult Size: 6 inches (15 cm)
Kissing Gouramis can be a delightful addition to a Bala Shark tank, but it’s essential to keep a close eye on their interactions, as they can exhibit territorial behavior.
Providing ample swimming space and hiding spots can help discourage aggression and maintain a peaceful environment for both Bala Sharks and Kissing Gouramis. Larger tanks with tall plants, driftwood, or other decorations are ideal to accommodate their swimming needs and create the optimal balance for these intriguing tank mates.
Boeseman’s Rainbowfish
Boeseman’s Rainbowfish are an attractive and lively species, with their iridescent colors and energetic swimming patterns. They make excellent tank mates for Bala Sharks, adding vibrant hues and excitement to the aquarium.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 55 gallons (208 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful and active
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, these fish benefit from a diverse diet, including high-quality flake or pellet food, along with live or frozen offerings such as daphnia, brine shrimp, or bloodworms.
- Adult Size: 4 inches (10 cm)
Boeseman’s Rainbowfish thrive in community tanks, and their friendly behavior is perfect for cohabiting with Bala Sharks. They are happiest in schools of six or more, which showcases their beautiful colors and encourages their lively activity.
Providing ample swimming space in a well-decorated and planted tank is essential for creating a comfortable and harmonious environment for both Boeseman’s Rainbowfish and Bala Sharks to thrive in.
Emerald Rainbowfish
Emerald Rainbowfish, also known as Forktail Blue-eyes or Furcata Rainbowfish, are an energetic and eye-catching species that can be an excellent tank mate choice for Bala Sharks, adding a touch of bright green to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, require a mixed diet consisting of high-quality flake or micro pellet food and live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, or bloodworms.
- Adult Size: 1.6 inches (4 cm)
The Emerald Rainbowfish are small yet hardy fish that can adapt well to a community tank setting. As a schooling species, they should be kept in groups of at least five individuals, giving them a sense of security and fulfillment.
To promote a harmonious environment for both Bala Sharks and Emerald Rainbowfish, provide ample swimming space with a variety of plants and structures. These vibrant little fish can bring an extra layer of color and excitement to your aquarium, while comfortably coexisting with Bala Sharks.
Black Knife Fish
Black Knife Fish are an intriguing species with their elongated, knife-shaped bodies and shimmering black coloration. Their fascinating appearance and nocturnal behavior make them an exciting addition to a Bala Shark aquarium.
- Compatibility: 3 out of 5
- Tank Size: 100 gallons (378 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Generally peaceful, but can be territorial
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous, prefer live or frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp, but will accept high-quality carnivorous pellets.
- Adult Size: Up to 20 inches (50 cm) long
Keeping Black Knife Fish with Bala Sharks requires careful monitoring of tank size and engagement, as they can be territorial and may prey on smaller tank mates.
Providing hiding spots like caves, rocks, and driftwood is essential for this nocturnal species, as it helps them feel secure during their active hours while the Bala Sharks rest. With proper care and attention, Black Knife Fish can coexist with Bala Sharks, adding a captivating element of mystery to your aquarium.
Tinfoil Barb
Tinfoil Barbs are an attractive and active species that can make great tank mates for Bala Sharks. Their energetic demeanor, metallic sheen, and schooling nature make them an appealing addition to an aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 75 gallons (284 liters) or larger
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful and active
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, requiring a mix of high-quality pellet or flake food, live or frozen foods such as daphnia and brine shrimp, and small pieces of vegetables.
- Adult Size: 12-14 inches (30-35 cm) long
Similar to Bala Sharks, Tinfoil Barbs are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least five to promote a healthy and happy environment. They require spacious tanks with plenty of swimming room, as well as hiding spots and plants that provide cover.
Since Tinfoil Barbs can grow quite large, ensuring that both they and the Bala Sharks have ample space to swim freely is essential to maintain a thriving underwater community.
Denison Barb
Denison Barbs, also known as Roseline Sharks or Red-Line Torpedo Barbs, are a popular and visually striking species that make excellent tank mates for Bala Sharks due to their peaceful nature and shared love for active swimming.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 55 gallons (208 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, requiring a varied diet of high-quality flake or pellet food, live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms, and vegetable supplements.
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long
The Denison barbs thrive in schools of five or more individuals, which is perfect for providing a balanced and lively aquarium environment for your Bala Sharks. The key to ensuring their harmonious coexistence lies in offering enough swimming space and a well-maintained, oxygen-rich tank with moderate water flow.
This combination of care will bring out the best behaviors from both species, creating a dynamic and visually stunning aquatic community.
Black Skirt Tetras
Black Skirt Tetras, characterized by their silver-grey bodies, dark vertical stripes, and unique skirt-like fins, are great tank mates for Bala Sharks. Their peaceful demeanor and delightful colors make them a popular choice in community tanks.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful and social
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, should be provided with a mix of high-quality flake or pellet food, and occasionally supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms.
- Adult Size: Up to 3 inches (7.6 cm)
These small, schooling fish enjoy being in groups of at least six and add a charming, lively atmosphere to the aquarium. When housed with Bala Sharks, it’s essential to provide plenty of swimming space and hiding spots, ensuring all fish feel secure and comfortable.
With proper care and attention, Black Skirt Tetras can thrive alongside Bala Sharks, creating a visually appealing and harmonious underwater world.
Serpae Tetra
Serpae Tetras, known for their vibrant red coloration and black comma-shaped markings, can make lively and intriguing tank mates for Bala Sharks. Their small size and social nature create an energetic atmosphere in the aquarium.
- Compatibility: 3 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Social, but may display mild fin-nipping tendencies
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, should be provided with high-quality flake or pellet food and supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia.
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
Being schooling fish, Serpae Tetras thrive in groups of six or more. They typically display peaceful behavior but may occasionally nip at the fins of other fish, making it important to monitor their interactions with Bala Sharks.
Providing a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots can effectively reduce such behaviors and maintain a harmonious environment. Combining careful observation and proper care, Serpae Tetras can be a vibrant and dynamic addition to a Bala Shark tank.
Rummy Nose Tetras
Rummy Nose Tetras, recognized by their distinct red heads, silver bodies, and black-and-white striped tails, are a delightful species that can be fantastic tank mates for Bala Sharks due to their peaceful temperament and schooling nature.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful and social
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, needing a balanced diet of high-quality flake or pellet food and occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or bloodworms.
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
To ensure a harmonious environment, keep Rummy Nose Tetras in groups of six or more and provide plenty of swimming space and hiding spots like plants or driftwood. Bala Sharks and Rummy Nose Tetras prefer the same water conditions, making them an ideal choice for maintaining a balanced aquatic community.
With their stunning appearance, Rummy Nose Tetras add a splash of color and excitement to the aquarium, further enhancing the visual appeal of your Bala Shark tank.
Siamese Algae Eater
Siamese Algae Eaters are an excellent addition to your Bala Shark tank, bringing both visual appeal and practical benefits with their unique appearance and exceptional algae-eating abilities.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) or larger
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, primarily feeds on algae, but should be provided with a variety of flake or pellet foods, supplemented with vegetables and occasional live or frozen foods.
- Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
These compatible, hardy fish help maintain a clean and healthy environment for your Bala Sharks by eating algae and detritus. They are not aggressive, making them ideal tank mates for Bala Sharks and other community fish.
Siamese Algae Eaters do well when provided with ample swimming space and hiding areas, such as rocks and plants. By introducing Siamese Algae Eaters to your aquarium, you will be creating a balanced and beneficial underwater community alongside your Bala Sharks.
Flying Fox Fish
Flying Fox Fish, with their streamlined bodies and striking appearance, can make interesting and attractive tank mates for Bala Sharks. Their peaceful nature and algae-eating habits make them a valuable addition to the aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) or larger
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Generally peaceful, but may display territorial behavior
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, primarily feeds on algae, but should be given a balanced diet, including high-quality flake or pellet food, vegetables, and occasional live or frozen foods.
- Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
Although generally peaceful, Flying Fox Fish may become territorial, especially towards other bottom dwellers. Providing a spacious tank with a variety of hiding spots and decor helps mitigate territorial behavior while ensuring a comfortable environment for both species.
The addition of Flying Fox Fish to your Bala Shark tank creates an exciting dynamic and contributes to establishing a thriving aquatic ecosystem where all inhabitants can flourish.
Giant Danios
Giant Danios, known for their vibrant colors and swift swimming abilities, make a fantastic and energetic addition to a Bala Shark tank, enhancing the visual appeal and activity level of the aquarium.
- Compatibility: 5 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful and active
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, require a varied diet of high-quality flake or pellet food, live or frozen foods such as daphnia or brine shrimp, and occasional plant-based offerings.
- Adult Size: 4 inches (10 cm)
As schooling fish, Giant Danios should be kept in groups of at least six members. They enjoy swimming side by side, making them a complementary match for Bala Sharks in terms of both tank layout and preferences. Providing a spacious tank with open swimming areas and adequate plant cover encourages the best interactions between Giant Danios and Bala Sharks.
With their vibrant appearance and complementary behavior, Giant Danios contribute immensely to the overall harmony and visual interest of your underwater world.
Red Tail Shark
Red Tail Sharks, with their eye-catching black bodies and bright red tails, can make an impressive addition to a Bala Shark tank. Although striking in appearance, compatibility should be approached with caution due to their territorial behavior.
- Compatibility: 2 out of 5
- Tank Size: 55 gallons (208 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive and territorial
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, requiring a mix of high-quality flake or pellet food and live or frozen foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp.
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Red Tail Sharks can be challenging tank mates for Bala Sharks, mainly because of their territorial nature towards other bottom-dwelling species. To give Red Tail Sharks and Bala Sharks the best chance of coexistence, provide a large aquarium with ample hiding places, rocks, and plants for both species to retreat to when necessary.
Careful observation and diligent monitoring of their behavior is crucial to ensure a conflict-free environment. With the proper tank setup and care, Red Tail Sharks can be a visually stunning addition to a well-balanced Bala Shark tank.
Hoplo Catfish
Hoplo Catfish are a peaceful and hardy bottom-dwelling species that can be compatible tank mates for Bala Sharks. Their unique appearance and engaging behaviors make them an exciting addition in the aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feeding on a mix of high-quality sinking pellets, live or frozen foods like bloodworms, and the occasional inclusion of vegetable-based foods.
- Adult Size: 6 inches (15 cm)
While Hoplo Catfish and Bala Sharks both prefer ample swimming space and hiding spots for their respective territories, they can coexist harmoniously when the aquarium is set up to accommodate their needs.
It is crucial to provide enough hiding spaces such as driftwood, caves, and plants for Hoplo Catfish to take refuge in, ensuring a sense of security for these intriguing bottom dwellers. When properly cared for, Hoplo Catfish can become an appealing and enjoyable companion for your Bala Sharks, contributing to a diverse and well-rounded aquatic habitat.
Elephant Nose Fish
Elephant Nose Fish capture attention with their elongated snouts and unique silhouettes, making them a distinctive addition to a Bala Shark tank. Despite their intriguing appearance, they require specific care and attention.
- Compatibility: 3 out of 5
- Tank Size: 50 gallons (189 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate to challenging
- Temperament: Mostly peaceful, can be timid
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous, prefer live or frozen foods like bloodworms, mosquito larvae or brine shrimp, and may also accept high-quality carnivorous pellets.
- Adult Size: 8-10 inches (20-25 cm)
While these fish have peaceful temperaments, care should be taken to ensure they are comfortable in an active Bala Shark environment. They need dimly lit tanks with plenty of hiding places, driftwood, and rockwork to feel secure.
Elephant Nose Fish are also sensitive to water parameters, making it essential to maintain pristine water conditions to keep both them and Bala Sharks feeling their best. With proper care and a carefully planned aquarium layout, these fascinating Elephant Nose Fish can become captivating and compatible members of your aquatic community.
Discus Fish
Discus Fish are an iconic and stunning addition to an aquarium, with their distinctive disk-shaped bodies and vibrant colors. Their serene personalities make them a potential match for Bala Sharks.
- Compatibility: 2 out of 5
- Tank Size: 75 gallons (284 liters) or larger
- Care Level: Challenging
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous, require high-quality, varied diet of live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and beef heart, along with flakes and pellets.
- Adult Size: Up to 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter
Though Discus Fish are peaceful, their compatibility with Bala Sharks is limited due to their specific water parameters and care requirements. Discus Fish thrive in soft, acidic water, whereas Bala Sharks prefer neutral to slightly alkaline conditions. Moreover, Discus Fish can be sensitive to sudden environmental changes, making them more suitable for experienced aquarists.
If you are determined to keep Discus Fish with Bala Sharks, ensure that water parameters are closely monitored, and the tank has plenty of hiding spots and plant cover. Their compatibility should be approached with caution, and extra care is necessary to maintain a harmonious tank.
How to Choose Tank Mates for Bala Sharks
Bala Sharks, also known as Silver Sharks, are popular freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby due to their unique appearance and active behavior. Selecting tank mates for Bala Sharks requires careful consideration due to their active nature and schooling tendencies. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose appropriate tank mates for your Bala Sharks.
Consider Bala Sharks’ Size and Behavior
Bala Sharks can grow up to 14 inches in a home aquarium setting and are known for their active, schooling behavior. They prefer being in groups of five or more.
Characteristics of Suitable Tank Mates
Given the Bala Sharks’ size and active nature, their tank mates should ideally:
- Be able to cope with the active nature of Bala Sharks.
- Be of similar size to prevent bullying or predation.
- Not be overly aggressive or territorial.
Avoid Unsuitable Tank Mates
Avoid these types of fish when choosing tank mates for Bala Sharks:
- Aggressive or territorial species.
- Very small fish that could become an accidental snack.
- Slow swimmers who may be overwhelmed by the Bala Sharks’ active nature.
Examples of Suitable and Unsuitable Tank Mates
This table provides examples of suitable and unsuitable tank mates for your Bala Sharks:
| Suitable Tank Mates | Unsuitable Tank Mates |
|---|---|
| Clown Loaches | Betta Fish |
| Rainbowfish | Cichlids |
| Larger Tetras | Small Guppies |
| Angelfish | Oscar Fish |
| Gouramis | Dwarf Frogs |
Recommended Steps to Introduce New Tank Mates
Here are the steps you can follow to introduce new tank mates to your Bala Sharks:
- Quarantine new fish: This prevents the spread of diseases to your Bala Sharks.
- Introduce slowly: This can be done by using a separation net or introducing new tank mates when lights are dim.
- Monitor: Watch the behavior of your Bala Sharks and their new tank mates closely to ensure they are getting along well.
Choosing suitable tank mates for your Bala Sharks is essential for a harmonious aquarium environment. Remember to consider the nature, size, and behavior of potential tank mates to ensure compatibility with your Bala Sharks.
Conclusion
In summary, the 20 best Bala Shark tank mates all have unique features and compatibility factors for a harmonious aquarium environment. Consider each species’ requirements and behavior while making your final choice. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment if you have any questions or want to share your experiences!
