New Member

Posts: 5
From:
Registered: Jan 2003

posted 01-12-2003 12:59 PM         

---

Today I am getting my first Bala Sharks (2). My current set up is a 10 Gal. I know they grow slowly but was wondering how much time they could spend in my tank without restricting growth? From what I have read, they won't reach 6" or so until about year 4. Is this correct? I fully intend to purchase a larger aquarium but lack the space, that and I may be moving in the next 6 to 12 months.

[This message has been edited by smash_lizard (edited 01-12-2003).]

IP: Logged

Member

Posts: 53
From:
Registered: Dec 2002

posted 01-12-2003 04:58 PM         

---

35 cm (14 inches)

IP: Logged

Member

Posts: 183
From:austin,tx, usa
Registered: Dec 2002

posted 01-12-2003 06:19 PM         

---

well, one of mine grew to 6 inches in less than a year, in a 10 gallon. it's now in a 55.

IP: Logged

New Member

Posts: 5
From:
Registered: Jan 2003

posted 01-12-2003 07:26 PM         

---

While I was was checking out an employee mentioned that she had three Balas in a ten gallon and they quickly outgrew it. She then said they were placed in a 55 gal. and they quit growing, odd.

IP: Logged

Moderator

Posts: 199
From:El Paso, Texas
Registered: Oct 2002

posted 01-12-2003 08:51 PM         

---

Growth can depend alot on the quality of water and what a fish eats. I would hesitate putting a bala in a tank so small because of their skittish nature. Make sure to provide plenty of plants and hiding places. Don't put anything in there that is agressive, or good bye bala.

IP: Logged

New Member

Posts: 5
From:
Registered: Jan 2003

posted 01-13-2003 04:46 PM         

---

I fully intend to only keep Balas in this tank. There are a good amount of hiding places in the tank currently, but I am hesitant to add anything else into the tank. I do not want to restrict their range of mobility and send them into a panic.

IP: Logged

posted 01-27-2003 05:45 PM           

---

Balas are awesome fish. They have quickly become my favorite due to their shine as they swim and their overall easiness to keep. However, a 10 gallon tank wil be too small for your fish if you plan to put 2 in it. I have a 40 gallon square shaped tank and my Balas grew too quickly for it. They need plenty of open room to swim. As someone stated above they are skittish at first, so hiding spots are recommended. If you are planning on purchasing a 55 gallon in the future, I would wait until then to get your Balas.

Enjoy them when you get them !!!!!

IP: Logged

New Member

Posts: 8
From:Dublin
Registered: Feb 2003

posted 02-02-2003 12:46 PM         

---

yeah balas are great,
but you will NEED a bigger tank soon enough

IP: Logged

All times are ET (US)