Description
Scientific Name: Puntigrus tetrazona Origin: Southeast Asia (Sumatra, Borneo, and the Malay Peninsula)
Physical Characteristics The Tiger Barb is easily recognized by its high-contrast color pattern.
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Coloration: The body is a metallic yellow to orange-gold, crossed by four wide, black vertical bands. The fins (dorsal, anal, and pelvic) are typically edged in a bright orange or vivid red.
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Size: They are relatively small, growing to about 2.5 to 3 inches (6–7 cm) in length.
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Gender Differences: Males are generally more colorful, often developing a bright red nose and a solid red line on their dorsal fin, while females are larger, rounder, and have paler colors.
Behavior and Temperament
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Schooling Nature: These are strictly schooling fish. They establish a “pecking order” within their group and must be kept in groups of at least 6 or more. If kept in smaller numbers, they become insecure and aggressive toward other fish.
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Fin Nipping: They have a reputation for being semi-aggressive fin nippers. They should not be kept with slow-moving fish with long, flowing fins (like Angelfish, Bettas, or Guppies), as the Barbs will shred their fins.
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Activity: They are hyper-active mid-level swimmers that constantly dart around the aquarium.
Care and Habitat
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Tank Size: A minimum of 20–30 gallons is recommended to give them enough space to swim and school.
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Water Conditions: They are hardy and adaptable but prefer slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0–7.5) with temperatures between 75°F and 82°F (24°C–28°C).
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Diet: They are unfussy omnivores. They will greedily eat high-quality flake food, micro pellets, and frozen treats like bloodworms or brine shrimp.
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