1. Home
  2. Fish
  3. Freshwater Fish

The 10 Best Freshwater Sharks for Your Fish Tank

Alexandra Rose
By Alexandra Rose
Updated
Apr. 30, 2025
Photo of a bala shark in a fish tank

Photo by saavedramarcelo/iStock / Getty Images Plus

For most people, the word “shark” conjures up an image of a toothy, marine predator—but for the freshwater aquarist, “shark” means something different. Despite the name and their shared need for lots of swimming space, freshwater sharks are not true sharks. They’re not close genetic relatives to marine sharks, but they have a “shark-like” body shape, angular fins, a taller-than-average dorsal fin, and often a metallic coloration.

We talked to Jessie Sanders, DVM, CertAqV, owner and chief veterinarian of Aquatic Veterinary Services, in Santa Cruz, California, about the best freshwater sharks for home aquariums.

Some words of caution before we begin: First, even the smallest freshwater aquarium sharks require a relatively large tank. Second, many species are either too aggressive for most community tanks or can grow too large for the average aquarist to maintain. Please only consider purchasing these animals after doing plenty of research and being certain you can provide them with an appropriate habitat.

The 10 Best Freshwater Sharks for Aquariums


Photo of roseline sharks in a fish tank

ioanna_alexa/iStock/Getty Images Plus

1. Roseline Shark

  • Scientific name: Puntius denisonii
  • Size: 4–6 inches
  • Lifespan: 5 years
  • Best tank mates: Barbs, danios, larger tetras, rainbowfish, and small cichlids

Also called the denison barb, this fish is widely considered the best freshwater shark for beginners. These omnivores do best if kept in schools of at least six individuals and need an aquarium no smaller than 55 gallons. They have a silvery body with a black line that runs its entire length, highlighted by brilliant red accents. They are generally quite peaceful, but if crowded in too small a space can become aggressive.

Recommended Products

Koval LED Aquarium Light, 24 - 30 in, 78 LED
Out of Stock
Koval LED Aquarium Light, 24 - 30 in, 78 LED
Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars
4.3
251Reviews
$51.10Chewy Price
View Item Details
Tetra AquaSafe Plus Freshwater & Marine Aquarium Water Conditioner, 8.45-fl oz bottle
Tetra AquaSafe Plus Freshwater & Marine Aquarium Water Conditioner, 8.45-fl oz bottle
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
321Reviews
$10.92Chewy Price
API Freshwater Aquarium Master Test Kit, 800 count
API Freshwater Aquarium Master Test Kit, 800 count
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7
264Reviews
$28.79Chewy Price
Image

Mirko_Rosenau/iStock / Getty Images Plus

2. Rainbow Shark

  • Scientific name: Epalzeorhynchos frenatum
  • Size: 6–7 inches
  • Lifespan: 5–8 years
  • Best tank mates: Barbs, danios, larger tetras, rainbowfish, and some cichlids

This beautiful species can be territorial, so it is best to keep them as a single specimen. They have a black body with bright red fins. Adults don’t exceed 7 inches in length, but still require an aquarium of 55–75 gallons. Building a community tank around a rainbow shark can be a challenge, but peaceful schooling species that occupy the top and middle of the tank (as opposed to the bottom like the shark) will fare the best.

Photo of a red tail shark fish

Mirko_Rosenau/iStock/Getty Images Plus

3. Red Tail Shark

  • Scientific name: Epalzeorhynchos bicolor
  • Size: 6–7 inches
  • Lifespan: 5–8 years
  • Best tank mates: Barbs, danios, larger tetras, gouramis, and some cichlids

The red tail shark looks similar to the rainbow shark, except the only fin that’s red is their tail. They are also considered fairly aggressive. A spacious tank (55–75 gallons) with lots of hiding spots can minimize aggression. It’s best to keep only one specimen per tank.

Photo of bala sharks swimming in a fish tank

ben-bryant/iStock / Getty Images Plus

4. Bala Shark

  • Scientific name: Balantiocheilos melanopterus
  • Size: 12–14 inches
  • Lifespan: 8–10 years
  • Best tank mates: Barbs, danios, larger tetras, gouramis, rainbowfish, plecos, and some cichlids

Bala sharks are beautiful, silvery fish with black-tipped fins. They are shy and prone to stress if kept singly, so a small school of at least five or more is ideal. Balas get quite large and therefore need a big tank—a trio of bala sharks shouldn’t be housed in less than 180 gallons, and the greater the volume the better.

Photo of a school of tinfoil barb fish in a fish tank

ltadul/iStock/Getty Images Plus

5. Tinfoil Barb

  • Scientific name: Barbonymus schwanenfeldii
  • Size: 8–14 inches
  • Lifespan: 10+ years
  • Best tank mates: Other barbs, gouramis, loaches, plecos, and large cichlids

This is a shoaling species that prefers to live in groups of six or more, and considering their adult size of more than a foot, the absolute minimum tank size is 180 gallons—with 350 gallons being more appropriate. They are not aggressive and mix well with medium-sized fish of a similar temperament, but they will eat small fish.

Image

Mirko_Rosenau/iStock / Getty Images Plus

6. Tiger Barb

  • Scientific name: Puntigrus tetrazona
  • Size: 3 inches
  • Lifespan: 5–10 years
  • Best tank mates: Other small barbs, corys, small to medium tetras, and plecos

One of the best-known and most readily available barbs is this small, beautiful, shoaling fish that remains relatively non-aggressive if kept in groups of at least eight. These fish are extremely active and prefer lots of swimming space, so a 20-gallon or bigger tank is best.

Image

Mirko_Rosenau/iStock/Getty Images Plus

7. Rosy Barb

  • Scientific name: Pethia conchonius
  • Size: 6 inches
  • Lifespan: 3–5 years
  • Best tank mates: Community fish like other small barbs, danios, gouramis, corys, small to medium tetras, and plecos

This is a colorful, peaceful cyprinid that’s best kept in a group of at least five. A 30-gallon tank is the minimum size for a group of eight rosy barbs, and you’ll need an even larger tank if you have more fish. These hardy, easy-to-keep fish are a great community species and do well with nearly any other peaceful fish, though long-finned species will likely get nipped by them.

Image

Karel/Adobe Stock

8. Black Ruby Barb

  • Scientific name: Pethia nigrofasciata
  • Size: 3 inches
  • Lifespan: 3–5 years
  • Best tank mates: Other barbs, gouramis, tetras, danios, and catfish

The black ruby barb, aka purple-headed barb, is a gorgeous aquarium fish that makes a great addition to many community tanks. Providing plenty of space (a minimum of 30 gallons) and keeping them in groups of six or more will reduce aggression. Like most barbs these fish are omnivores, and they like to graze on algae and detritus on the bottom.

Photo of a sunset barb in a fish tank

Pavaphon/Adobe Stock

9. Sunset Barb

  • Scientific name: Pethia setnai
  • Size: 2.5 inches
  • Lifespan: 3–5 years
  • Best tank mates: Other barbs, gouramis, tetras, danios, and catfish

This is a shy and peaceful fish that is best maintained in groups of six or more. They should not be housed with boisterous species, but will thrive in a calm community aquarium. Fish with long fins should be avoided due to the nipping tendencies of these small barbs.

Image

mikhahilg/Adobe Stock

10. Cherry Barb

  • Scientific name: Puntius titteya
  • Size: 2 inches
  • Lifespan: 4–6 years
  • Best tank mates: Danios, loaches, corys, plecos, gouramis, tetras, and other barbs

This barb is a great choice for those who want the look and movement of a shark but on a small scale. A school of at least five of these red beauties can be kept in a 20-gallon tank, but due to their active nature, they’ll appreciate all the additional space you can give them.

FAQs About Fish Tanks With Sharks


What does a freshwater shark eat?

Freshwater sharks tend to be omnivorous. As grazers, they spend a lot of their time eating algae off the substrate and other surfaces while also picking up bits of food that have settled on the bottom or in rock crevices. They will thrive on a varied diet that includes dried and fresh foods.

How do you set up a shark tank aquarium?

You will first need to decide what size aquarium you can manage, and then choose an appropriate shark species. Filtration is key, as freshwater sharks need extremely clean water conditions, so you will want a filter that is oversized for your tank volume. Heavily planted tanks, or at least tanks that have areas of dense plant growth, will help deter aggression.

Attributions


Expert input provided by Jessie Sanders, DVM, CertAqV, owner of Aquatic Veterinary Services, in Santa Cruz, California.

This content was medically reviewed by Chewy vets.


Alexandra Rose

Alexandra Rose

Related articles
  • The 10 Best Tropical Fish for Beginners
    The 10 Best Tropical Fish for Beginners

  • How To Build and Maintain a Koi Pond
    How To Build and Maintain a Koi Pond

  • How Much Do Koi Fish Cost?
    How Much Do Koi Fish Cost?

  • Ich on Fish: How To Identify, Treat and Prevent ‘White Spot Disease’
    Ich on Fish: How To Identify, Treat and Prevent ‘White Spot Disease’
  • Our experts are available 24/7:We're here 24/7:
  • 1-800-672-4399
  • United States
  • About
  • Investor Relations
  • Affiliates
  • Jobs
  • FAQs
  • Learn
  • Give Back
  • Gift Cards
  • Sell on Chewy
Download iOS appDownload Android app
Go to ACHC pharmacy accreditationLegitscript ApprovedCompounding Pharmacy Approved
  • Copyright © 2025, Chewy, Inc.
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • Accessibility
  • California Supply Chains Act
  • Vendor Compliance
Download phone image
Get the Chewy app
Download iOS appDownload Android app
We're here 24/7
1-800-672-4399
United States
Copyright © 2025 Chewy, Inc.
Terms-Privacy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)-Accessibility
California Supply Chains Act-Vendor Compliance
About-Investor Relations-Jobs-Learn
Give Back-Gift Cards-Sell on Chewy
Skip to searchSkip to main content
Not in the U.S?

Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

Continue to Canada site
Use App
24/7 HelpHelp
Get help from our experts 24/7
1-800-672-4399
    • Track Order
    • -
    • FAQs
    • -
    • Contact Info
    AccountAccount
    Sign InNew Customer? Start here
    • Account
    • Orders
    • Manage Autoship
    • Favorites
    • Buy Again
    • Prescriptions
    • Pet Portal
    • Connect with a Vet
    • Pet Insurance Dashboard
    • My Rescues
    • Create a Pet Profile
    CartCart
    Your cart is empty.
    Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
    Not in the U.S?

    Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

    Continue to Canada site
    Use App
    24/7 Help
    Get help from our experts 24/7
    1-800-672-4399
      • Track Order
      • -
      • FAQs
      • -
      • Contact Info
      AccountAccount
      Sign InNew Customer? Start here
      • Account
      • Orders
      • Manage Autoship
      • Favorites
      • Buy Again
      • Prescriptions
      • Pet Portal
      • Connect with a Vet
      • Pet Insurance Dashboard
      • My Rescues
      • Create a Pet Profile
      CartCart
      Your cart is empty.
      Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
      Food
      • Dry Food
      • Wet Food
      • Fresh Food & Toppers
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Shop by Health Condition
      • Puppy Food
      Treats
      • Bones, Bully Sticks & Naturals
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Biscuits & Cookies
      • Long-Lasting Chews
      • Jerky Treats
      • Freeze-Dried & Dehydrated
      Toys
      • Plush Toys
      • Chew Toys
      • Fetch Toys
      • Treat Dispensing Toys
      • Puzzle Toys
      • Rope & Tug Toys
      Supplies
      • Crates, Pens & Gates
      • Beds
      • Leashes, Collars & Harnesses
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Clothing & Accessories
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Training & Behavior
      • Tech & Smart Home
      Dog DealsSummer ShopPet Parent SuppliesShop all Dog
      Grooming
      • Brushes & Combs
      • Shampoos & Conditioners
      • Grooming Tools
      • Paw & Nail Care
      • Ear Care
      • Skin Care
      Cleaning & Potty
      • Pee Pads & Diapers
      • Poop Bags & Scoopers
      • Cleaners & Stain Removers
      • Vacuums & Steam Cleaners
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Heartworm & Dewormers
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • DNA Testing Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Purina Pro Plan
      Hill's
      Blue Buffalo
      Frisco
      Royal Canin
      Bark
      Craveable, frozen raw meals. Serve up fresh nutrition with Stella & Chewy's.
      Food
      • Wet Food
      • Dry Food
      • Everyday Favorites
      • Shop by Health Consideration
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Highest Quality Food
      • Food Toppers
      Litter
      • Clumping
      • Scented
      • Unscented
      • Natural
      • Lightweight
      Treats
      • Crunchy Treats
      • Lickable Treats
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Catnip & Cat Grass
      Toys
      • Interactive & Electronic Toys
      • Teasers & Wands
      • Balls & Chasers
      • Catnip Toys
      • Plush & Mice Toys
      Cat DealsPet Parent SuppliesShop all Cat
      Supplies
      • Litter Boxes & Accessories
      • Cat Tech & Smart Home
      • Beds
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Collars, Leashes & Harnesses
      • Grooming
      Trees & Scratchers
      • Trees & Condos
      • Scratchers & Scratching Posts
      • Wall Shelves
      • Window Perches
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • Test Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Tiny Tiger
      Shop Blue Buffalo
      Shop litter robot
      Shop Temptations
      Shop Hill's Science Diet
      Shop Purina Pro Plan
      Mix up their menu. Stock up on Friskies variety packs. Shop now.
      Horse
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Health & Wellness
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Fly Control
      • Prescription Medications
      • Vaccines
      Chicken
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Nesting & Egg Supplies
      • Coops & Runs
      • Feeders, Waterers & Deicers
      Livestock
      • Cattle
      • Goat
      • Pig
      • Sheep
      • Llama & Alpaca
      Wild Bird & Wildlife
      • Wild Bird
      • Squirrel & Critter
      • Duck & Waterfowl
      • Deer
      Small Pet
      • Rabbit
      • Guinea Pig
      • Hamster
      • Ferret
      Pet Bird
      • Food
      • Treats
      • Toys & Perches
      • Litter & Nesting
      • Cages & Accessories
      Fish
      • Tanks & Aquariums
      • Food
      • Filters & Media
      • Decor & Substrate
      • Water Care
      Reptile & Amphibian
      • Live Feed
      • Food & Treats
      • Tanks & Terrariums
      • Heating & Lighting
      • Substrate & Bedding
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Shop Buckeye
      Shop Animed
      Shop Cosequin
      The Horse Shop. Your one-stop shop for everything they need to be their best.
      Prescriptions
      Order your pet's prescription items.
      How it works
      Shop all Pharmacy
      Health Services
      Chewy Vet Care
      Chat free with our vet team
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Compounded Medications
      Choose from a variety of flavors, strengths, and forms for your pet or horse.
      Learn about compounding
      Dog
      • Prescription Flea & Tick
      • Heartworm Prevention
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Antibiotics & Antifungals
      • Allergy Relief
      • Anxiety & Calming
      • Ear & Skin Conditions
      • Eye Drops & Ointments
      • Urinary & Kidney
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Cat
      • Prescription Flea & Tick
      • Dewormers & Parasiticides
      • Eye Drops & Ointments
      • Antibiotics & Antifungals
      • Allergy Relief
      • Anxiety & Calming
      • Urinary & Kidney
      • Thyroid & Hormone
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Horse
      • Anti-inflammatory & Musculoskeletal
      • Vitamins & Electrolytes
      • Skin & Coat Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Metabolic & Endocrine
      • Allergy & Immune
      • Behavioral Support & Sedatives
      • Reproductive Care
      Expert Health Tips
      • PetMD
      Connect with a Vet
      Free chat or live-video advice from our licensed veterinary team.
      Learn more
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Give your pet the best possible health coverage with wellness and insurance plans.
      Learn more
      Chewy Vet Care
      Exceptional in-person routine and urgent care from our compassionate veterinary teams.
      Schedule a visit
      Learn
      How We Give Back
      We've donated more than $100M in products to rescue animal centers.
      Learn more
      Donate to a Rescue
      You can help us make an impact by donating items to your local shelter.
      Find a Rescue
      Find Pets to Adopt
      Search thousands of pets from shelters and rescues in Chewy's network.
      Find Pets
      Join Our Network
      Join our network to access benefits and resources that’ll help more pets.
      Join Now
      Today's Deals
      Shop Flea & TickFlea & Tick