Tiger Barb

Barbs are found within the genera Barbus, in the family Cyprinidae. They are common to many fish hobbyists because they are easy to care for and are also resilient. Barbs can tolerate various water conditions, they can co-exist with other fish species in a community tank, and they can easily breed while in captivity.

Common Types of Barb Fish

The common types of barbs are the tiger barb, which are small fish that have distinctive stripes and red coloring on their fins and nose. There are also moss green tiger barbs that look equally beautiful. They grow as big as 2 ½ inches at full maturity and are natives of Borneo and Sumatra. Another common type is the rosy barb. These are pinkish red with silver flecks, and their dorsal and anal fins have black tips. The males change color and become deep red when they are ready to spawn, while the females are significantly brighter. Rosy barbs can grow as big as 5 inches. The biggest barb is 9 feet long, called the giant barb.

Barbs in Groups

A lot of the barb species like to be in schools. Try to keep no less than 5-8 barbs together in a tank. Although barbs can cohabitate with other fish species, they should not be put together in a tank along with fish that have the tendency to be aggressive. The barbs may be bullied, leading them to feel stress.

Habitat

The ideal habitat for barbs should include a lot of plants, preferably the floating kind. You may not have the opportunity to appreciate their full beauty if you use harsh lighting because they will want to hide. Strong lighting also affects the coloration of their bodies; therefore it is best to use dim lights. You can also include stones, roots, driftwood, ornaments and other objects that may be used as hiding places.

The ideal water condition for barbs should include a slightly acidic or neutral pH value. Although barbs are known to be hardy fish, it is still best to have the ideal water balance and temperature for them to thrive and remain healthy. This will also keep their colors vibrant and will induce spawning. If your barbs have gotten used to unsuitable water conditions, you must gradually introduce the water changes so as not to stress them out.

Food

The types of food recommended for barbs are a balance between vegetable and meaty foods, which is what they are used to in the wild. High quality flakes for omnivore fish would be a good substitute as their base diet. You can occasionally include Artemia (brine shrimp), or something similar to it.

Photo: http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj223/Clipboards/Tropical%20Fish/tiger_barb.jpg

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