Skittish Balas

[Matt W]

Now I know that Bala Sharks are skittish by nature, but is there anything I can do to calm their panic a little? Let me explain...

I had 4 balas in my 55 gallon. About a month and a half ago I lost two of them to ich. When all four were in there, they were somewhat skittish, but now the remaining two are VERY skittish. They both have marks on their sides from ramming in to stuff. You can barely walk up on the tank any they are all over the place.

The two remaining are 6" and 7". I know they generally enjoy more of their same kind. Would it calm them back down if I were to get another 1 or 2 to keep them company? Will the new fish need to be bought about the same size, or can I get a couple of 1 to 2 inch balas?

Thanks in advance...

[PumaWard]

I believe that you can keep large balas with little ones quite easily without any problems... I also do believe that your fish will calm down signifigantly if you add more... Also, what do you have for plants and decorations in the tank? Periphrial vegetation (plastic or live) should help calm their nerves as well... Finally, how bright is your light... I find that if fish have too bright of light it makes them hyper sensitive to what goes on outside the tank.

Take a look at this video of two balas.. I'm guess the larger one's gotta be well over a foot in lenght...

http://*****************/catalog_pages/sharks_eels_loaches/shark_bala.htm#top2

[Matt W]

This tank is completely fake plants with some rock formations also. I have tons of fake plants in there however, so the cover should be adequate. I find that when they hide, they generally like to do so behind the rock formations.

The light in this tank is fairly low, maybe 1 watt per a gallon....

Thanks for the response. I am thinking I will pick up a couple of smaller balas and see how they do (after quarantine of couse)...

Thanks!

[PumaWard]

Sounds good, I hope this helps them get more comfy.. good luck :)