Scientific Name: Balantiocheilos melanopterus

Please note – The image used above is for illustration purposes only; Size, colour and sex may vary. Many of our livestock species are sold as juveniles and have not yet reached their full size and colour potential. If you have any concerns about the size or colour of the livestock you wish to order, please contact our livestock team via our support centre before placing your order. Due to the large quantities of livestock orders daily, the livestock team will are unable to select fish / shrimp to meet specific gender or aesthetic needs.

Approximate purchase size : 4 - 6cm
All Pond Solutions will always endeavour to supply as close to the approximate size range as possible. Due to variations from suppliers on rare occasions this may not always be possible. Images used are to show the full potential of the fish when fully mature and are not always representative of juvenile specimens.

How easy are they to care for?
We would class this fish as an easy level of care

How large can they grow?
Can achieve a maximum size of 35cm, although most commonly reaches around 20-25cm in large aquaria.

Where in the world are they from?
Largely found in Borneo, Sumatra and Peninsular Malaysia.

What is the ideal number to keep together?
Should be kept in a group of 5 or more as species will attain a distinct pecking order within the shoal.

What water conditions do they require?
Ideally slightly acidic water conditions are provided between 6.5pH - 7pH however they will happily live in conditions ranging up to pH of 8.0. Temperatures should range between 16-26°C.

What should you feed them?
Will happily accept a very wide range of foods.

How compatible are they with other fish?
Very peaceful species, however due to its size should not be kept with smaller fish.

Can they be bred in captivity?
Unknown to have been bred in captivity by conventional methods. Largely hormone bred in commercial setups.