Black Shark     Labeo chrysophekadion

This is a that grows quite large and can be aggressive.  It is only suitable for large tanks with other large fish.  They are hardy and adaptable.  They are called sharks because of their body shape, but are not real sharks.  They are members of they Cyprinidae family. 

Grows to: 14" in aquariums but wild specimens can grow larger

Housing:  The Black Shark a  bottom dweller.  They should be provided rocks and caves in order to stake out a territory.   In an aquarium they are tolerant of standard aquarium conditions as long as the water is well filtered and partial water changes are conducted regularly.   (Temperature: 74-80)  (pH is 7.0-7.6)  They can be jumpers, so the aquarium should have a tight fitting cover.    Small specimens can be temporarily housed in tanks of 30 gal or more, but adults will need at least a 125 gallon.

Tankmates: They should be kept as singles as they are territorial , and aggressive toward their own species. They should only be kept with larger more aggressive fish.  Many of our customers have had success in keeping them in larger community tanks with adult Cichlids such as Oscars, Jack Dempseys, and Firemouth Cichlids.   They will harass and may kill smaller slow moving fish.

Feeding:  They will accept a variety of foods.  Feed flakes, pellets, freeze-dried,  cichlid sticks., and algae wafers. 

Natural Habitat:  Asia
Availability:  These fish are only occasionally available.

See also:  Other Freshwater Sharks