Tiger Barb

Available in store only

Tiger Barb (Puntius tetrazona)

• Appearance & Size

• Approx. purchase size: 2 cm

• Max adult size: 6–7 cm

• Active, mid-water schooling fish, males more colorful than females

• Behavior & Social

• Semi-aggressive if kept in small numbers

• Best kept in groups of 7–12+ to spread aggression

• Quick swimmers, active in the middle of the tank

• Can nibble long-finned or slow-moving fish

• Diet & Feeding

• Omnivorous: flakes, small pellets, freeze-dried food, frozen food, brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, blanched vegetables

• Feed smaller portions to ensure all fish get food

• Avoid overfeeding bloodworms; provide roughage for digestion

• Aquarium Setup

• Minimum tank size: 29 gallons or larger

• Plenty of plants, decorations, and obstacles to break line-of-sight

• Active fish need open swimming space with hiding spots

• Planted tanks preferred

• Water Parameters

• pH: 6.0–8.0

• Temperature: 20–26 °C (72–82 °F)

• Can tolerate a wide range, but maintain stable environment

• Tankmates – Compatible

• Other speedy fish: zebra danios, silver tip tetras

• Larger peaceful species: clown loaches, certain South American cichlids

• Active bottom dwellers: Botia loaches

• Tankmates – Avoid

• Tiny fish that can be eaten

• Long-finned fish: betta, angelfish

• Slow or timid fish outcompeted for food

• Schooling & Mixing Colors

• Minimum of 7 fish, ideally 12+

• Multiple color variants can be combined for a kaleidoscope effect

• Staying with same type of tiger barb gives a unified look

• Lifespan

• Typically 3–5 years with proper care