Description
Silver Shark (Epalzeorhynchos frenatum)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Epalzeorhynchos frenatum
Common Names: Silver Shark, Silver Sailfin Shark, Albino Silver Shark (variant)
Family: Cyprinidae (Carps & Minnows)
Order: Cypriniformes
Origin: Southeast Asia — Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia (rivers and streams)
Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm) in captivity; can grow slightly larger in spacious tanks
Lifespan: 8 – 10 years
Tank Zone: Mid to upper-level dweller; active and territorial
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 100 – 200 ppm
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)
Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Body: Elongated, streamlined body with silvery-gray coloration, darker fins, and a slightly upturned snout; resembles a small freshwater shark.
Behavior: Semi-aggressive, especially toward similar species; peaceful toward other types of fish if tank is spacious.
Swimming Style: Active swimmer; requires ample space and hiding areas.
Unique Feature: Popular for its shark-like appearance and energetic swimming behavior.
Nature: Territorial if kept alone or with other Silver Sharks; best kept in large tanks.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Flakes, sinking pellets, live/frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp), vegetables (blanched zucchini, spinach)
Feeding: Once or twice daily in moderate portions
Tip: Provide a varied diet to maintain color and health
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons (210 L) for a single adult; larger preferred for multiple sharks
Filtration: Strong filtration with moderate water flow; active swimmers produce moderate waste
Decor: Open swimming areas with driftwood, rocks, and hiding spots
Lighting: Moderate
Water Change: 25% weekly for clean and stable water
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: Can be kept alone; if in groups, minimum 3–4 in very large tanks
Tank Mates: Larger, peaceful fish; avoid slow-moving or small delicate species
Avoid: Small, delicate, or highly aggressive fish
✅ Do’s
Provide plenty of open swimming space
Maintain excellent water quality and moderate current
Offer a varied omnivorous diet
Monitor behavior to prevent aggression
❌ Don’ts
Don’t keep in small tanks — will become stressed and aggressive
Don’t house with very small or delicate fish
Don’t neglect water quality or filtration
⭐ Quick Tips
The Silver Shark is a striking, active, and semi-aggressive freshwater fish, perfect for medium to large aquariums.
Its shark-like appearance, energetic behavior, and hardy nature make it a popular choice for aquarists seeking visually impressive and lively tank inhabitants.
Best for those who can provide ample swimming space and stable water conditions
