Black Shark

Black SharkThe Black Shark, also known as the Black Sharkminnow, is a large, powerful freshwater fish recognised for its deep black coloration and shark like body shape. Juveniles are often sold small but grow into imposing adults that require significant space and careful tank planning. Physical Characteristics: Adult Size: 6090 cm (can exceed this in very large systems) Body Shape: Long, muscular, shark like profile Colouration: Solid jet black body and fins

The Black Shark, also known as the Black Sharkminnow, is a large, powerful freshwater fish recognised for its deep black coloration and shark-like body shape. Juveniles are often sold small but grow into imposing adults that require significant space and careful tank planning.

Physical Characteristics:

• Adult Size: 60–90 cm (can exceed this in very large systems)

• Body Shape: Long, muscular, shark-like profile

• Colouration: Solid jet black body and fins

• Sexual Dimorphism: Minimal; difficult to distinguish

• Lifespan: 10–15 years

Behaviour & Temperament:

• Temperament: Aggressive

• Swimming Level: Bottom to mid levels

• Territorial Behaviour: Extremely strong

• Social Behaviour: Must be kept singly

Black Sharks will aggressively defend territory and will attack or harass most tank mates if space is insufficient.

Aquarium Requirements:

• Minimum Tank Size: 400+ litres (adult requirement)

• Juvenile Holding Tank: Short-term only

• Water Temperature: 22–28°C

• pH Range: 6.0–7.5

• Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH

• Water Flow: Moderate to strong

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

• Aquascape: Large rocks, driftwood, caves, open swimming zones

• Tank Cover: Essential

Feeding:

Black Sharks are omnivorous with a strong appetite:

• Large sinking pellets

• Algae wafers

• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, peas)

• Frozen foods (prawns, mussels, bloodworms)

Feed once daily. Avoid overfeeding due to rapid growth and waste production.

Compatibility:

Suitable Tank Mates:

• Large cichlids

• Arowanas

• Giant gouramis

• Large catfish

Avoid Housing With:

• Community fish

• Other sharks or loaches

• Bottom dwellers

• Slow or timid species

Breeding:

• Breeding in Captivity: Not achieved

• Commercial Breeding: Not established

• Notes: Not a home-breeding species

Special Considerations:

• Grows extremely large

• Not suitable for standard home aquariums

• Aggression increases with age

• Long-term commitment required

• Best suited to public aquaria or very large private systems

***Photos for reference only*** If you like updated photo please contact us and we will send you photos/video of actual fish that you are purchasing.