bamboo shark temp tank size

charliethezero · Dec 21, 2015

I had bought a shark egg thinking we would be upgrading before it hatched. I've had the egg for about a month and it's still going strong and getting big, but we also just decided to move in the spring. Husband doesn't want to upgrade till after the move now. How long can it stay in a 55 gallon? Would it be "okay" for a few weeks? I plan on setting up a stock tank for it till the move.

eatbreakfast · Dec 22, 2015

When born they are around 4-5". They don't compete well for food at all, and will need to be target fed. Are there any other fish? Sharks are more sensitive to poor water quality. They can also topple rocks that aren't stable and utilize more sand space. It should be ok very temporarily, but will definitely need a significantly larger tank, as they reach 3.5'.

charliethezero · Dec 22, 2015

I have a marine betta and three green chromis right now. The tank is very temporary and definitely plan for a good upgrade when we move. I was preparing for a 3-4 foot shark, the move just delayed my plans for a bit.

Bensadork · Dec 22, 2015

you might want to invest in some protection in the corners so your shark doesnt slam its nose into the square corners of the 55. Maybe get some plastic and round off the corners. It wont look good at all but the health of your shark is the most important thing until you can upgrade. Or, let someone else hang on to the shark until you upgrade.

charliethezero · Dec 22, 2015

That's a good point. He'll go in an oval stock tank once it is ready. Thank you guys.

eatbreakfast · Dec 22, 2015

I wouldn't worry about the corners for a bamboo shark, they can navigate corners, unlike more active 'open water' sharks.

charliethezero · Dec 22, 2015

Okay thank you. I'm really hoping he hatches and starts eating for me.

Ppoeschl · Dec 22, 2015

Round and oval tanks are definitely better for all shark species... However, benthic sharks such as bamboo tend to do alright with corners.

A 55 gallon will be fine for around 2-3 months for your shark, the width is far from ideal but the shark should be able to manage without permanent damage.