Tiger Barb

Tiger Barb - The Classic Orange and Black Striped Community Barb

The Tiger Barb is the original, unmistakable version of this species, sporting bold orange and black vertical striping across a deep-bodied, fast-swimming frame. It's a longstanding favourite for keepers wanting an active, colourful shoal in a larger community tank.

A big part of this fish's appeal is its constant motion, tiger barbs rarely sit still, chasing each other and darting through open water in a tight, energetic group. That same energy is why they are notorious fin-nippers when kept in too small a number, so a proper-sized school is essential.

At N8 Aquatics, our fish are carefully raised and conditioned to ensure healthy stock suited to home aquariums.

Species Snapshot

• Adult Size: ~7 cm
• Tank Size: 80 L minimum, keep in a group of 6 or more
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, notorious fin-nippers — a large group keeps the aggression directed within their own species rather than at tankmates
• Temperature: 22–26°C
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Difficulty: Easy

Ideal Habitat and Care

A spacious tank with open swimming room, some driftwood or planting for cover, and a secure lid works best, since this active species appreciates room to shoal and can be prone to jumping.

• Temperature: 22–26°C
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Water Flow: Moderate
• Maintenance: Weekly partial water changes of 20–30%

Diet

This species is an easy feeder that will happily accept a varied diet.

• High-quality flake or pellet as a daily staple
• Frozen or live daphnia and bloodworm for variety
• Occasional vegetable matter to round out the diet

Compatibility

As notorious fin-nippers, tiger barbs must be kept in a large group of their own kind and paired only with robust, fast-moving fish that lack long, trailing fins.

Suitable tankmates include:

• Danios and other fast-moving barbs
• Larger, robust tetra species
• Other quick, short-finned community fish

Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.

Why Buy From N8 Aquatics

• Carefully raised aquarium fish
• Healthy, well-conditioned stock
• Strong genetics and vibrant colouration
• Breeder support if you have questions

Pickup Information

N8 Aquatics currently operates as a local pickup-only breeder in Central Queensland.

Orders are collected by appointment after purchase confirmation.

Please ensure you are able to collect your fish before placing an order.

Important

All livestock sold by N8 Aquatics should be introduced to fully cycled aquariums suitable for the species being kept.

Please ensure your aquarium setup and tankmates are appropriate before purchasing.