Tiger Barb Care Sheet
Puntigrus tetrazona
An active, striking fish known for its bold black stripes and tendency to nip fins. Tiger barbs must be kept in large groups to manage their semi-aggressive behavior.
74–82°F
6–8
20 gallons
5–7 years
2.5–3 inches (6–7 cm)
6+ (minimum 8–10 recommended to reduce fin nipping)
Easy. Egg scatterers. Condition with live foods. Spawns readily in a separate breeding tank. Remove adults after spawning.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivore — flakes, pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, vegetables. Active eaters that consume food quickly.
Natural Habitat
Native to rivers and streams in Borneo and Sumatra, Indonesia. Prefer well-oxygenated water with moderate flow.
Care Tips
MUST keep in groups of 8+ — small groups result in relentless fin nipping
Do NOT keep with long-finned fish (bettas, angelfish, guppies)
In large groups, aggression is directed within the school, not at tank-mates
Very active swimmers — need a long tank with swimming space
Come in many varieties: green, albino, GloFish variants