Tiger Barb (Puntigrus tetrazona) is a beginner-level freshwater fish that needs at least 20 gallons and 72-79°F. Active and bold, with a reputation for nipping. Large groups spread out the aggression, and they should not be kept with long-finned or slow fish.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Puntigrus tetrazona |
|---|---|
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Origin | Sumatra and Borneo |
| Adult size | 3 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-79°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive, fin-nipper |
| Social behavior | Schooling, keep 8+ |
| Swim level | Mid |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Diet | Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 5-7 years |
Quick tips
- Keep at least 8 so they pick on each other, not tankmates.
- Avoid bettas, angelfish and gouramis.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi