Tiger Barb Puntius tetrazona

Grows to: 2.5"

Hobbyist Level:  A hardy and lively fish suitable for beginners.

How Many?  They are a schooling fish that should be be purchased in groups of 4 or more.  Six or more is best.

Housing:  Provide plenty of swimming room as well as some bushy plants for hiding.  They look best with a dark substrate.  They swim in the mid region of the tank.  They enjoy a moderate water current.  Minimum tank size is about 10 gallons. (Temperature- 68-79),  (pH 6.5-7.5)

Tank mates:  They are active fish that should be kept with other active fish of similar size which can include gouramis, large active tetras, other barbs, sharks, and catfish.  Do not mix with slow moving fish or fish with long fins as they may nip fins.

Feeding:  They will accept a variety of foods.  Feed flakes, along with brine shrimp and frozen foods.  Tiger barbs will show their best color after you have owned them for a few months and have given them a good diet.  They are an omnivore.

Natural Habitat:  Sumatra, Borneo, Malaysia & Indonesia.   Fish sold at Elmer's are domestically raised.

Males and Females:  Male is slimmer and may have brighter color.

Color varieties: Albino Tiger Barb, Green Tiger Barb, Red Tiger Barb

See also:  Barbs