Tiger Barb – Puntigrus tetrazona
The Tiger Barb is a lively and colorful freshwater fish, famous for its striking orange body with bold black vertical stripes. Active and playful, Tiger Barbs bring movement and energy to community aquariums, making them a favorite among both beginner and experienced aquarists.
Tiger Barbs are schooling fish, so keeping them in groups of 6 or more helps reduce aggression and ensures natural behavior. Their feisty personality and playful antics make them both fun to watch and a dynamic addition to your tank.
Key Details:
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Scientific Name: Puntigrus tetrazona
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Common Name: Tiger Barb
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Origin: Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Borneo, Sumatra)
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Size Purchased: 1" – 1.5"
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Adult Size: ~2" – 3"
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Type: Freshwater Cyprinid
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Temperament: Semi-aggressive, schooling
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Tank Size: 20+ gallons
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 74–79°F
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pH: 6.0–7.5
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Hardness: Soft to Moderate
Diet:
Omnivorous. Feed a balanced diet of high-quality flakes, small pellets, frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
Care Notes:
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Keep in schools of 6 or more to reduce nipping and stress.
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Provide plenty of swimming space and occasional plants for cover.
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Avoid housing with slow-moving or long-finned species, as Tiger Barbs may nip fins.
Why Choose the Tiger Barb?
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Bold, striped coloration adds visual excitement to any tank.
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Active, schooling behavior creates lively, engaging aquarium dynamics.
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Hardy and adaptable, making them great for community tanks.