Fin's Fish Guide
The Tiger barb (Puntigrus tetrazona) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The tiger barb is a small cyprinid native to Sumatra and Borneo in Southeast Asia and bred worldwide for the aquarium trade. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a deep, silver-gold body with four conspicuous black vertical bars and reddish fins, from which it takes its name. It lives in schools in clear, flowing and still fresh water and feeds omnivorously on worms, small crustaceans and plant matter. The eggs are scattered freely. The species is very popular in the aquarium. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tiger barb?
The Tiger barb has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Four black vertical bands and red fins; very popular aquarium fish
Where does the Tiger barb live?
The Tiger barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia
How big does the Tiger barb get?
The Tiger barb grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Tiger barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Tiger barb is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Tiger barb edible?
The Tiger barb is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Puntigrus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Tiger barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tiger barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.