Can axolotls live with bala sharks?
Verdict
No
No. Axolotls and bala sharks should not share a tank. Axolotls are coldwater animals (60–66°F); bala sharks need 72–82°F. No temperature suits both.
What to watch
- Deal breakerAxolotls are coldwater animals (60–66°F); bala sharks need 72–82°F. No temperature suits both.
- Deal breakerFish nibble at axolotl gills, and axolotls swallow small fish. Keep axolotls on their own.
- Watch outBala sharks grow to 13 inches and need 125 gallons, far more than a tank set up for axolotls.
What works
- pH 6.5–7.5 suits both.
- They use different parts of the tank: axolotls the bottom, bala sharks the mid.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Axolotl | Bala shark | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 60–66 °F | 72–82 °F |
| pH | 6.5–8 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Adult size | 10.0 in | 13.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal | 125 gal |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swims at | Bottom | Middle |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Groups of 4+ |
| Diet | Carnivore | Omnivore |
Better tank mates for bala sharks
Questions
Can axolotls live with bala sharks?
No. Axolotls and bala sharks should not share a tank. Axolotls are coldwater animals (60–66°F); bala sharks need 72–82°F. No temperature suits both.
What temperature suits both axolotls and bala sharks?
None. Axolotls need 60–66 °F and bala sharks need 72–82 °F, so the ranges do not meet.
What size tank do axolotls and bala sharks need together?
At least 125 gal, set by the bala shark. Add space for each extra fish.