Silver Shark

Balantiocheilos melanopterus

Silver Shark (Balantiocheilos melanopterus) — Intermediate care, Semi-aggressive, under Barb & Shark. Minimum tank in the app: 95 US gal min; aim for 72–82°F and pH 6–7.8. The Silver Shark is ideal for those seeking dynamic shoaling behavior in a spacious environment.

Silver Shark (Balantiocheilos melanopterus) in a planted freshwater aquarium
Care levelIntermediate
TemperamentSemi-aggressive
Min tank size95 US gal min
pH range6–7.8
Temperature72–82°F
Max size15.7 in (40.0 cm)
Captive lifespan8–15 years
SchoolingYes · 6+ recommended

Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.

Natural distribution

Asia

  • East & Southeast Asia

Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.

Silver Shark Tank Setup

A minimum of 360 liters is essential to accommodate their size and activity. Incorporate open swimming areas with strategic placements of plants and driftwood to create hiding spots, which can alleviate aggression. Moderate to strong water flow mimics their natural habitat, while soft substrates help reduce stress on their bodies.

What Do Silver Sharks Eat?

While an omnivore, Silver Sharks may compete aggressively for food, particularly in mixed species settings. A varied diet is crucial for vibrant coloration and overall health; however, ensure it's delivered in a way that minimizes competition, such as scattering food across the tank.

Silver Shark Tank Mates

Best paired with similarly sized, active fish to avoid conflicts over territory. Avoid long-finned species and slow swimmers, as these are prime targets for fin-nipping. Maintain a minimum group size of six to diffuse aggression and establish social structures; larger groups can mitigate stress further.

Are Silver Sharks Good for Beginners?

We rate this as intermediate. Budget time for testing, maintenance, and watching behaviour if the water looks fine but the fish do not. Aquarists often underestimate the importance of group size, leading to increased aggression and stress when kept in smaller numbers. Inadequate tank size or poor filtration can also exacerbate waste levels, further stressing these fish.

Building a community? Run the full list through the stocking calculator before you add anything else.

Log tests and reminders in App-aquatic—free, same data you see here.