Freshwater Sharks

Freshwater Sharks

Something for everyone - explore our impressive range of aquarium-friendly freshwater sharks.

While you can't keep a great white at home, freshwater aquarium sharks offer the same striking appearance and bold personality-without the danger. They aren't true sharks but share the sleek body shape and confident behaviour that make them such fascinating aquarium fish.

Different species of ‘shark' vary widely in size, temperament, and care needs. This guide will help you choose the right shark for your experience level and tank size.

Shark Care

Each freshwater shark species has its own unique requirements, so research is essential before purchasing. Our most popular aquarium sharks include:

• Silver (Bala) Shark
• Red Tail Shark
• Rainbow Shark
• Black Shark
• Siamese Flying Fox (Siamese Algae Eater)

Freshwater Sharks Natural Habitat

Freshwater sharks are native to South East Asia, with many species originating from rivers and forest systems in Thailand and Malaysia. Sadly, several species are critically endangered in the wild, and the aquarium hobby has played an important role in keeping them alive.

Freshwater Sharks Behaviour & Compatibility

Silver (Bala) Sharks are active, fast-swimming shoaling fish. They get along well with peaceful mid-sized fish but can fin-nip timid species. Suitable tankmates include Angelfish, medium Barbs, Rainbowfish, Rasboras and Gouramis. They grow large (up to 35 cm) and require a group of at least five.

Siamese Flying Fox are more placid and can be kept alone or in small groups (with mostly females). Good tankmates include Angelfish, small Barbs, Corydoras and Danios.

Rainbow Sharks can become territorial with age. Provide ample hiding places and pair with confident but calm companions such as Gouramis, Angelfish, Danios and Rainbowfish. Only one per tank is recommended.

Red Tail Sharks should never be kept with Rainbow Sharks, as aggression is guaranteed. Keep individually unless highly experienced. Although territorial, they do not usually eat smaller fish—Tetras and Barbs often cohabit well.

Black Sharks are the largest freshwater shark species, reaching up to 91 cm. They are aggressive with their own species but coexist surprisingly well with smaller fish that avoid their territory. Large tanks are mandatory.

Freshwater Sharks Tank Setup Tips

• Tank

  Tank size varies dramatically depending on species. Below are guidelines for Siamese Flying Foxes and Silver Sharks, as well as minimum tank sizes for solitary species.

  Recommended Fish Count	Tank Volume
  1–3 Siamese Flying Foxes	94 L (25 gal)
  5 Siamese Flying Foxes	113 L (30 gal)
  8 Siamese Flying Foxes	150 L (40 gal)
  10 Siamese Flying Foxes	190 L (50 gal)

  Recommended Fish Count	Tank Volume
  5 Silver Sharks	300 L (80 gal)
  8 Silver Sharks	470 L (123 gal)
  10 Silver Sharks	680 L (180 gal)
  12 Silver Sharks	1000 L (280 gal)

  Species	Minimum Tank Volume
  Red Tail Black Shark	113 L (30 gal)
  Rainbow Shark	190 L (50 gal)
  Juvenile Black Shark	473 L (125 gal)
  Adult Black Shark	757 L (200 gal)

  All sharks are capable of jumping-ensure your aquarium has a secure lid.

• Base

  Most sharks are bottom feeders and will sift through the substrate. A soft sandy base prevents mouth and belly abrasions.

• Foliage

  All species require hiding spaces such as rocks, caves or driftwood. Dense planting is beneficial, though always leave open swimming areas. Red Tail Sharks may damage leafy plants like Amazon Swords, so choose hardy varieties where possible.

• Water

  Maintain a stable temperature between 22-26°C (71.6-78°F). A heater may be required in cooler climates.

  Keep pH between 6-8 and hardness between 5-15 dGH. A good water testing kit ensures stable conditions. Perform regular water changes—sharks do not tolerate sudden parameter shifts.

  Use a reliable water conditioner when adding tap water and maintain substrate cleanliness at all times.

Feeding & Care

Freshwater sharks are omnivores and natural scavengers. Most species graze on algae and help control algae growth in the aquarium. Provide high-quality sinking pellets, vegetable wafers and occasional treats such as bloodworms, insect larvae and daphnia.

Great Reasons to Keep Sharks

• A rewarding next step for aquarists wanting a more advanced species.
• Large variety of shapes, colours and behaviours.
• You get to say you own a shark—without needing a giant ocean tank!

Browse our range of healthy freshwater sharks below and choose the perfect species for your aquarium.