Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

They possess an active, bold, and highly engaging temperament. They interact playfully within their own species constantly. They bring a vibrant and dynamic energy to any aquascape.

Diet

Omnivore

They are straightforward omnivores that accept most commercial diets. Crushed flakes and small pellets are eagerly consumed daily. Frozen cyclops helps maintain their striking black and red coloration.

Sex ratio

School

Maintain them in a sizable mixed-sex shoal of eight or more. Males display intensely vibrant colors when competing for female attention. Large groups ensure a visually spectacular and peaceful display.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Feed them twice a day with very small portions. Their tiny stomachs cannot handle massive singular feedings. They constantly forage among plants between their main meals.

Bioload

This smaller barb creates a moderate, easily manageable bioload. A standard filtration system keeps their water perfectly clean. They benefit greatly from consistent, small water changes.

Flow

Stagnant

They naturally inhabit sluggish streams and prefer moderate flow. Gentle currents encourage them to school tightly together beautifully. High turbulence makes them skittish and prone to hiding.

Reproduction

Oviparous

They are typical egg-scatterers that breed quite readily. Fine-leaved plants or spawning mops are necessary for egg attachment. They will ravenously eat their own eggs if left in the tank.

Compatibility & tankmates

They are slightly more peaceful than the standard Tiger Barb. They still require robust tankmates to prevent minor fin-nipping. A spacious community tank suits their active lifestyle well.

Tank level

Middle

They are predominantly mid-water dwellers in the aquarium. They actively swim back and forth across the open spaces. They use tall background plants to rest during the night.