Species profile
Tiger Barb
Puntigrus cf. anchisporus
Semi aggressive
Easy care
120 L minimum aquarium
5–8 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 10
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Classic aquarium Tiger Barbs are a domesticated trade population whose exact species ancestry is not reliably represented by the traditional Puntigrus tetrazona label. Husbandry is well established even though identity is messy.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
21–26 °C
pH
6–8
GH
Up to 20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 10
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
1.2
Active and famously nippy when under-grouped. Keep at least 10 in a spacious aquarium and do not combine with slow, timid or long-finned fish.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
Yes / caution
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
120 L
Minimum footprint
90 × 35 cm
Alternative names
Puntigrus anchisporus, Puntigrus tetrazona, Sumatra Barb
Native range
Trade population. Current evidence points largely toward Bornean Puntigrus anchisporus ancestry, while true P. tetrazona is a distinct wild species; hybrid ancestry is possible in domestic lines.
Natural habitat
Provide open swimming space, robust planting and good oxygenation. The care profile is for common domestic Tiger Barb lines rather than a locality-verified wild population.
Diet & feeding
Feed quality flakes/pellets with plant matter and varied frozen/live invertebrate foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are usually slimmer and more colourful, with stronger red in the fins and snout; females are larger and fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Egg scatterer with no parental care. Adults readily consume eggs unless separated from the spawning substrate.