Green Tiger Barb-L

The Tiger Barb, scientifically known as Puntigrus tetrazona, is a lively and colorful species of barb native to the streams and rivers of Sumatra, Borneo, and the Malay Peninsula. It is a favorite in the aquarium hobby due to its bold black vertical stripes on a bright orange to gold body, active schooling behavior, and hardiness.

Adult Tiger Barbs typically reach about 2.5 to 3 inches (6 to 7.5 cm) in length. They have a deep, laterally compressed body with four distinct black stripes running vertically across the bright orange-gold base color. The fins are tinged with red or orange, especially in healthy, well-conditioned fish. Males tend to be slimmer and display more vibrant coloration, while females are slightly larger and rounder.

A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a small school. Tiger Barbs are active, social fish that should always be kept in groups of six or more to minimize fin-nipping and aggression. The aquarium should have a soft sand or fine gravel substrate, open swimming areas, and some live or artificial plants and driftwood for cover. Moderate lighting and a gentle to moderate current will help simulate their natural environment.

Water parameters for the Tiger Barb should include a temperature range of 74 to 80°F (23 to 27°C), a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. They are tolerant of a wide range of conditions but thrive best in clean, well-maintained water with regular partial water changes.

Feeding Tiger Barbs is straightforward, as they are omnivorous and will accept a wide variety of foods. Offer high-quality flakes or pellets as a staple, and supplement with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. They also appreciate some plant matter, such as blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods.

Tiger Barbs are best kept with other active, similarly sized fish such as other barbs, danios, rainbowfish, or fast-moving tetras. Avoid slow-moving or long-finned tankmates, as Tiger Barbs may nip at their fins if kept in too small a group or if bored.

Breeding Tiger Barbs is possible in captivity. They are egg-scatterers and show no parental care. To breed, use a separate tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Remove adults after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs. Fry can be raised on infusoria or powdered foods until they are large enough to eat baby brine shrimp.

Puntigrus tetrazona (Tiger Barb) is a robust, active species that adds color and energy to community aquariums, especially when kept in large, lively groups.