The iridescent shark (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) is a large freshwater fish species native to Southeast Asia. Despite its name, this fish is not related to sharks; it gets its name from its streamlined, shark-like appearance. In its native region, the iridescent shark is often farmed as a food source. However, in the USA and Europe, it is commonly kept as an aquarium fish.
In this article, you’ll learn how to care for iridescent sharks, including tank setup, feeding habits, suitable tank mates, and breeding practices. This guide is designed to help aquarists understand the unique challenges of maintaining this fish in captivity, given its size and specific care requirements.
