FishProfiles.com Message Forums

I was wondering what size tiger barbs really get to, and how long it takes for them to grow to full size. I know the profile says 2.8" (I would assume this is without the tail), but do they normally get that big in captivity? I am trying to figure out how many barbs I can add to my current set up without overstocking.

I know people are going to tell me I should have at least 6 barbs for a school (I lost one to disease). Believe me they are behaving with the other fish and each other.

Set up

20 gal Long (15 gal actual volume)

3 - three lined corys
4 - Tiger barbs
2 - cherry barbs

total inches of fish currently: 10"

The biggest tigers can approach three inches, even in captivity. Good to hear that yours are behaving, at least for now...

---

And when he gets to Heaven, to Saint Peter he will tell: "One more Marine reporting, Sir! I've served my time in Hell."

I really wouldn't recommend tiger barbs for anything under 30g(if theyre going to be kept with other fish), they get to be about 3 inches long and need schools of 8 or more to be tolerable for other fish, which would overstock your tank. Take the ones you have back and get 3 more cories and 4 more cherry barbs and another school of 6 of something small.. like harlequins.

John, What if the other fish were moved to another tank, and the twenty was a species tank? In your opinion, is it still too small?

If tigers are the only fish in there, it would look amazing.

if it was tiger only then you could go with 8, maybe 10.

Thanks everyone. I guess I'm leaning towards the species only tank and moving the other fish out. Your opinions and help were appreciated.

so how long does it take to reach mature size?

tweaky... is that right? 27 barbs in the 42 gallon? do you have any pictures??? sounds like an awesome tank...

---

Back in the saddle!

yeah that is right, still waiting on light, might be awhile as im spending money on other things. But yeah pics will be up asap, as they are finally used to the tank and are all showing full colour now.

beautiful. good luck with your tank! ive got 11 in my 46 gallon and i think they look really cool when they school so tightly together... i can imagine what yours looks like

---

Back in the saddle!

I obviously need more tigers in my tank. I started out with 6, but lost one in a powerhead accident. I have 3 males and 2 females. The one male appears to be a dwarf, he eats enough, yet never grows. The others are growing.

I know there's gotta be more room in my big tank. I want to keep it somewhat understocked, but what should be added at this point? (see below for what I have)