Tiger Barb (Puntigrus tetrazona), Tank-Bred

The Tiger Barb (Puntigrus tetrazona) is a semi-aggressive schooling species that is an excellent fish for the nano or planted aquarium. It is a notorious "fin-nipper", so it is best kept with quicker moving fish. It is known for its attractive striping and active behavior. It is rather exceptional in appearance, boasting a tiger-like striping. This particular species is native to Southern Sumatra, but is readily bred in the captivity. When kept in larger groups, males will display their best coloration while competing to attract females.

The Tiger Barb typically occupies the top and middle level of the water column, although it can often be seen swimming and feeding in the middle and bottom levels as well. It is safe with other fast moving fish such as danios, minnows, and tetras. Larger, slower moving fish with long fins such as Angelfish may be harassed. It may prey on smaller dwarf shrimp and their fry. Larger, peaceful invertebrates can make good tankmates. The Tiger Barb is best kept in groups of 6 or more, although larger groups are more ideal so that subdominant specimens are not bullied by dominant individuals during breeding behavior. It requires clean water to thrive and it will display optimal coloration and health in a planted aquarium with dark substrate. Low-light plants such as Java Fern, Anubias species, and Bucephalandra (Buce) species are excellent plants for its aquarium.

While not a picky eater, the Tiger Barb will thrive and remain very colorful on a varied diet of omnivorous foods. High-quality flake food, pellets, and live, frozen, or freeze-dried Artemia, microworms, Tubifex, and finely chopped bloodworms will all be readily accepted. 

What We Like About This Fish:

• Excellent banded pattern
• Potential to be a centerpiece fish
• Very active and noticeable fish in any aquarium
• Ideal for planted aquariums
• Will not bother ornamental plants

RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:

• Temperature: 68 - 79° F (20°-26° C)
• pH: 5.0 - 8.0
• KH: 1 - 5 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons for a group of 6 - 8

CARE INFORMATION:

• Diet: Omnivore. Will easily accept high quality dry and frozen foods of appropriate size. Requires a varied diet for optimal health and coloration.
• Social Behavior: Semi-Aggressive
• Origin: Southern Sumatra
• Average Adult Size: 2 - 2.4 inches (5 - 6.1 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 1 - 1.5 inch (2.5 - 3.8 cm)