Overview Family: Cyprinidae Native to the fast-flowing rivers and streams of South & Southeast Asia, barbs are admired for their vibrant colors, active behavior, & schooling nature. They require clean, well-oxygenated water with stable conditions to thrive. Barbs do best in groups of 6+ with plenty of swimming room. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water & moderate temperatures. Avoid aggressive tank mates & provide hiding places to reduce stress. Tiger Barbs are known fin-nippers, so caution is advised when selecting tank mates. Recommended Tank Size: A minimum of 60 litres Barbs are schooling fish & prefer peaceful, stable environments but can become territorial during breeding. Providing ample space helps reduce stress & aggression. Average Adult Size: Body length: 3–7cm or 12+ (depending on species) Barbs are moderate growers & usually reach adult size within 6–12 months with proper care. Water Parameters: pH: 6.0–7.5 Alkalinity: 3–10 KH General Hardness (GH): 5–12 Temperature: 22–27°C Food: High-quality tropical fish flakes or pellets designed for omnivores Frozen or live foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, tubifex worms Feed 2–3 small meals daily Remove uneaten food promptly to maintain water quality
