Tiger Barb

Tiger barbs are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet of high-quality flake food and small pellets as staples, supplemented 2-3 times weekly with frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia. Include occasional vegetable matter such as blanched spinach or algae-based foods to support digestive health. Feed small amounts once daily, only what they can consume in 2-3 minutes.

Tiger barbs are highly active, schooling fish that display constant movement and playful interaction within groups. They are notorious fin-nippers when kept in groups smaller than 8, but larger schools redirect aggression internally and become relatively peaceful community members. They occupy the mid-water column and prefer tanks with open swimming space combined with planted areas for shelter.

Breeding tiger barbs in captivity is moderately difficult and requires separate breeding tanks with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Condition pairs with high-protein foods, then transfer to slightly warmer water (26-27°C) to trigger spawning. Parents will eat eggs and fry, so remove them immediately after spawning; fry are tiny and require infusoria or liquid fry food for the first week.