Red Tiger Barb

Overview

The Tiger Barb (Puntigrus tetrazona) is one of the most popular barbs, known for its bold black stripes on an orange-gold body. Semi-aggressive and highly active — available in many trade forms (Standard, Albino, Green, Red, Galaksi, Marilyn). A fin-nipper if kept in small groups.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20–26°C (68–79°F)
• pH: 5.0–7.5
• Hardness: 4–18 dGH (very adaptable)

Tank Setup

• Minimum tank size: 75 litres for 8+
• Decor: Planted with open swimming space; they are constant swimmers
• Note: Boisterous — avoid delicate plants or slow-moving tank mates

Diet

• Base: Quality flake, granules
• Treats: Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, blanched vegetables
• Frequency: 2 meals daily; they are always hungry

Temperament & Tank Mates

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; notorious fin-nippers
• Best companions: Other robust fish — larger tetras, barbs, gouramis, corydoras
• Avoid: Long-finned fish (bettas, angelfish, guppies, swordtails) — fins will be shredded
• Schooling: Minimum 8; keeping larger groups actually reduces fin-nipping as aggression spreads

Breeding

• Difficulty: Easy; scatter spawner
• Process: Dense plants; remove parents (they eat eggs)

Common Issues

• Fin-nipping is their biggest issue — keep in groups of 10+ and avoid long-finned species
• Hardy and disease-resistant
• Active and boisterous — not for nano tanks
• Lifespan: 3–6 years