Varieties of Aquarium Sharks

Aquarium sharks refer to freshwater fish unrelated to the marine species. These schooling tropical fish are attractive community tank members. Although known for being assertive, these fish are called "sharks" due to their conformation and silhouette. The high dorsal fin and streamlined bodies echo the lithe shape of ocean sharks. Many of these fish like to school and their large size (adult lengths from 5 to 12 inches) requires a wide, large-volume tank. Tank width must be more than 12 inches to accommodate large sharks and at least 50 gallons for smaller species. Several varieties of these fish are available for the home aquarium.

  1. Red-Tailed Shark

    • These sharks are attractive tank additions with their barbels (whiskers), black bodies, white-tipped dorsal fins and striking red tails. Growing to a length of 4 inches, these fish are generally peaceful but may argue with other red-tails and sharks. They require a water temperature of at least 75 degrees Fahrenheit and are generally easy to care for but do need plenty of plants, driftwood and rocky areas for territorial reasons and for cover.

    Bala Shark

    • These fish grow more than a foot in length. Balas are schooling fish; their size and need for other Bala sharks require a tank of at least 75 gallons. These black outlined, silvery, iridescent fish are distinctive aquarium species as they school mid-tank in a dramatic fashion. They are easy to care for if tank size and cleanliness needs are met. They require driftwood and plants for cover and a water temperature of approximately 75 degrees.

    Chinese High-Fin Banded Shark

    • These unusual sharks require a very large tank of more than 100 gallons. Growing to more than 13 inches in length, these silvery and black striated fish have large eyes and rounded snouts. They are omnivorous, as are the other shark species, but can take a wider range of water temperatures, ranging from 68 to 80 degrees. They need well-filtered and moving water with a high oxygen level. Like other sucker fish, these Asian fish have rasping mouths with throat teeth and are excellent algae eaters. They can withstand cool temperatures less than 60 degrees and are sometimes kept in outdoor ponds.

    Rainbow Shark or Ruby Shark

    • This cyprinid species grows to a length of 6 inches and needs a large aquarium of more than 50 gallons. A slim, lithe fish with a pinkish iridescence, it requires a water temperature of 75 degrees or more. Intolerant of other rainbow sharks, it is a good community member with same size or larger tankmates. This shark needs plants, driftwood and rocks to create its territory and feel comfortable. An omnivore, the rainbow shark is easy to care for but does need vegetable matter in its diet.