Black Shark (Labeo chrysophekadion) is an advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 300 gallons and 72-79°F. Sold as a sleek black juvenile, this fish becomes a large, territorial adult about two feet long that is best suited to public aquariums or the very largest home tanks. Do not buy it for a standard community tank.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Labeo chrysophekadion |
|---|---|
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Origin | Southeast Asia (Mekong and Chao Phraya basins) |
| Adult size | 18-24 in |
| Minimum tank | 300 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-79°F |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Temperament | Territorial, belligerent with similar-shaped fish |
| Social behavior | Solitary |
| Swim level | All levels |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Omnivore: algae and vegetables (peas, cucumber), sinking pellets, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 10+ years |
Quick tips
- Plan for a tank at least 6 ft long before buying.
- Keep only one; it is aggressive to similar-shaped fish.
- Not a red-tail shark or rainbow shark; those stay far smaller.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi