Scientific Name(s): Puntius tetrazona, Barbus tetrazona, Capoeta tetrazona

Common Name(s): Tiger Barb, Green Tiger Barb, Sumatra Barb, Albino Tiger Barb

Family: Cyprinidae

Species Type: Cyprinids

Maximum Size: 3 inches

Life Span: 7 years

Natural Habitat: Asian Rivers

Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons

Tank Region: All over

Possible Tank Mates: Most community fish will work but avoid species with long flowing finnage.

Breeding Information: Breeding can be stimulated by using higher water temperatures of about 78°F and a pH of 6.5. Use only the best specimens for breeding.

Sexing Information: Males tend to have more vivid coloration.

Diet: Omnivorous - does well with flake food supplimented with fresh green vegetables.

Temperment: Aggressive; Peaceful and extremely active. The Tiger Barb may peck at the fins of other fish such as Angelfish or anything with longer/flowing fins. Behavior can be avoided if you keep them in groups of 6 or more so they so they spend more time chasing and nipping each other. Then, big fins don't tempt them. Lonely tiger barbs, on the other hand, seem to feel bored or insecure and start fin nipping as some sort of defensive instinct.

Common Diseases: None specific to species.