Bala Sharks are peaceful, large, and active fish that thrive in schools and need spacious tanks. Because they can grow up to 12 inches and swim fast, ideal tank mates must be equally robust, non-aggressive, and able to tolerate their activity level. Below, you’ll find compatible species organized by swimming zone and temperament along with those you should avoid.
Mid-to-Top Swimmers
Boesemani Rainbowfish
These energetic and colorful fish thrive in similar conditions as Bala Sharks. Their fast-swimming nature, peaceful demeanor, and size (3–4.5″) make them a great match in the mid-to-top area of the tank.
Congo Tetras
Larger than most tetras and naturally peaceful, Congo Tetras school well and aren’t intimidated by Bala Sharks. Their reflective scales add color and they stay active in the midwater zone.
Silver Dollar Fish
Calm and social, Silver Dollars are fast swimmers that match the pace of Bala Sharks. Their size (5–6″) ensures they’re not seen as food, and they do best in groups in the top-mid level.
Tinfoil Barbs
These large barbs are bold, active, and great schoolers — ideal for big community tanks. They require similar water conditions and a large footprint, making them compatible with Bala Sharks in tanks over 150 gallons.
Angelfish
When given enough room and calm tank mates, Angelfish can live peacefully with Bala Sharks. Their confident but non-aggressive temperament allows for balanced cohabitation in planted tanks.
Kissing Gourami
These semi-peaceful fish tend to mind their own business. While they can be assertive, they usually do fine with Bala Sharks in large tanks with enough space to swim and establish boundaries.
Fast Bottom Dwellers
One of the most suitable bottom dwellers for Bala Sharks, Clown Loaches are active, social, and similar in size. They enjoy the same warm water and thrive in large groups with lots of space.
Yoyo Loaches
These playful bottom feeders are quick and curious, making them a good match for Bala Sharks. Their size and speed help them avoid being harassed, and they help clean leftover food from the substrate.
Bristlenose Plecos
Small, peaceful algae-eaters, Bristlenose Plecos are perfect for the lower levels. They stay out of the way and don’t compete for food or territory with Bala Sharks.
Black Ghost Knifefish
Although they grow large, Black Ghost Knifefish are gentle and nocturnal. They prefer hiding during the day and won’t interfere with Bala Sharks, making them an interesting and compatible tank mate when space allows.
Rainbow Shark
Territorial toward other bottom dwellers but usually ignores Bala Sharks who stay mid-to-top. Keep only one Rainbow Shark per tank and provide caves or hiding places to avoid aggression.
Peaceful Cichlids & Semi-Aggressive Options
Keyhole Cichlids
Exceptionally peaceful for cichlids, Keyholes are shy and stay near the bottom. They coexist easily with Bala Sharks when the tank is well-planted and not overcrowded.
Severum Cichlids
Large and slow-moving, Severums generally keep to themselves. They do well with Bala Sharks in tanks that have visual breaks and plenty of space to avoid conflict.
Blue Acara
A balanced cichlid that can be semi-aggressive during breeding but usually peaceful otherwise. They are confident but don’t harass active fish like Bala Sharks when the tank is large enough.
Roseline Sharks (Denison Barbs)
These torpedo-shaped barbs are fast, social, and peaceful. They love strong current and match Bala Sharks in activity level, making them excellent companions in large, open tanks.
Fish to Avoid with Bala Sharks
Not all fish are compatible with Bala Sharks. The wrong tank mates can lead to aggression, stress, or injury. Here’s who to leave out:
Tiny or Fragile Fish
Small species can be mistaken for food as Bala Sharks grow.
- Neon Tetras
- Guppy Fry
- Ember Tetras
- Chili Rasboras
Aggressive or Highly Territorial Fish
These fish may harass or injure your peaceful Bala Sharks.
- Convict Cichlids
- Jack Dempsey
- Oscars
- Red Devil Cichlids
Slow, Fancy Fish with Long Fins
Bala Sharks may unintentionally stress or nip at these fish.
- Fancy Goldfish
- Male Bettas
- Long-finned Guppies
Other Aggressive “Sharks”
Territorial shark-like fish may compete with or attack Balas.
- Red Tail Sharks
- Albino Rainbow Sharks (if kept in multiples)
- Chinese Hi-Fin Sharks
FAQs
Can Bala Sharks live with small fish?
No. Small fish are often mistaken for food and can be eaten.
What are the best bottom feeders for Bala Sharks?
Clown Loaches, Yoyo Loaches, and Bristlenose Plecos are ideal.
Can Bala Sharks live with cichlids?
Yes, but only peaceful types like Keyhole, Severum, or Blue Acara.
What’s the best tank size for Bala Shark communities?
At least 125 gallons. Larger if you’re including other big or active fish.
How many Bala Sharks should I keep together?
Keep them in groups of 4–6 for natural schooling behavior.
