Tiger Barb
Tiger Barbs are the most aggressive of the Barb species and grow larger than others. Their requirements are different than other Barb species, so require a slightly different guide.
Tiger barbs are small, lively freshwater fish known for their striking appearance and energetic behavior. They typically have a golden-yellow body adorned with black vertical stripes, resembling a tiger's pattern. These fish are native to Southeast Asia and are popular in aquariums due to their hardy nature and playful temperament.
| Scientific Name | Puntius tetrazona |
| Origins | Southeast Asia |
| Adult Size | 3“ to 4” |
| Lifespan | 4 to 6 years |
| Temperment | Semi-Aggressive, Egglayer, Ominvore, 5 or more |
| IUCN Status | LC : Least Concern |
Behaviour
Tiger barbs thrive in groups, so it's best to keep them in schools of at least six or more to prevent stress and promote natural behavior. They can be semi-aggressive, especially towards their own kind, so providing plenty of hiding spots and swimming space is important in a community tank. Overall, they make a vibrant addition to aquariums, bringing movement and color to the underwater environment!
Tank Setup
Tiger Barbs are best kept in an aquarium with a soft current (strong currents will cause them stress), with fairly typical tropical aquarium conditions. Use a fine gravel or sand substrate as they are known to graze the bottom of the tank on occasion for food. The tank should have abundant plant material, but the fish also needs open space to swim.
Diet & Feeding
Tiger Barbs are omnivores. Offer them a varied diet of high-quality flake food, pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
Breeding
Tiger Barbs will eat their own eggs and young, so its best to take steps to protects their eggs if you are a serious breeder. Maintain consistent water parameters and have a good mixture of male and females in a school of five or more.
| Temperature | 73°F to 81°F |
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| Hardness | Soft - Medium |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Tank Zone | Middle |
| Substrate | Sand or Fine Gravel |
| Heating Required | Yes |
| Lighting Requirements | Low |
| Plant Friendly | Yes |
| Min Tank Size | 30 gallons |
Tank Mates
Tiger Barbs do not play nice with other Barb species and will need to be kept with other semi-aggressive species that can defend themselves. Do not house them with slow-moving, or large fin species.
Species Variations
There are several varieties of Barb in the aquarium trade, most are calm (see Cherry Barb), however Tiger Barbs should not be kept with other species of Barb.
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