White Tip Shark
The white tip shark, oddly also called the black tip shark, is a brackish South American catfish. These fish may be transitioned to complete marine aquariums, but in freshwater tanks they will always need a little salt. Sleek and very similar to actual sharks.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Ariopsis seemanni (formerly Arius jordani) |
|---|---|
| Origin | Pacific coast of Central and South America (Mexico to Peru) |
| Care Level | Moderate (needs brackish water as it matures) |
| Temperament | Peaceful schooler; eats small fish |
| Adult Size | Up to 12–14″ |
FAQ
What kind of water conditions does the white tip shark require?
The white tip shark requires brackish water, especially as it matures. A small amount of salt should be added to freshwater tanks to meet its needs.
Is the white tip shark aggressive or peaceful?
The white tip shark is a peaceful schooler and generally gets along well with other non-aggressive fish. However, it may eat small fish, so avoid keeping it with very small or slow-moving species.
How big does a white tip shark grow?
It can grow up to 12 to 14 inches in adult size.
Fiona Russell –
The white tip shark looks stunning in my 55-gallon tank. I added a bit of salt as recommended and it’s been thriving for three months. It’s peaceful and schools well with other catfish. Only issue is it does eat small fry, so I’ve removed some tiny fish from the tank.
Sophie Martin –
I was skeptical at first because of the name, but it’s actually a beautiful catfish. It’s not aggressive and fits well in a community tank. I keep it in brackish water and it’s active and healthy.
Nathan Jones –
Great addition to my aquarium. The fish is sleek and looks like a real shark. I followed the care guide and added salt as suggested. It’s calm and has been eating well since arrival.