Barb fish like tiger barbs, cherry barbs, and rosy barbs are popular freshwater fish for home aquariums. With their vibrant colors and active nature, they can be a beautiful addition to community tanks.
However, when it comes to finding suitable tank mates for barb fish, special care and consideration must be taken. Barb fish can exhibit some aggressive behaviors like fin nipping, so choosing the right tank companions is crucial for a peaceful environment.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to selecting compatible barb fish tank mates. It explores the best options for barb tank mates based on size, temperament, and requirements.
You’ll also learn what fish should be avoided in a barb aquarium and tips for properly introducing new tank mates. With the right information, you can create a thriving barb community tank where all the fish coexist happily.
Use this guide to pick suitable companions like cory catfish, danios, tetras, and more for your barb fish.
What Is the Ideal Environment for Barb Fish?
Barb fish love to swim. They need a big tank with a lot of open space. But they also like hiding spots. A well-planted tank is great for this! It gives them places to play and rest.
It’s also key to keep the water just right. Barb fish do their best when the water is between 72°F and 79°F. The pH level should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.5 to 7.5.
Keep the tank clean and make sure it doesn’t get too hot or too cold.
Are Barb Fish Good Tank Mates?
Yes, Barb fish make good tank mates. They live well with other fish. Tiger barbs work well with most community fish. That includes danios, cories, and rainbow sharks. Some other good friends for tiger barbs are pictus, molly, pleco, and platy fish.
Fish like tetras also go along with tiger barbs because they have the same size and act alike.
Cherry barbs can also share a tank with tiger barbs. This is because they both like the same water conditions and are calm in nature. However, every Barb’s actions depend on its type and setting it lives in.
So you should keep an eye on them when new friends come into the tank to ensure peace among all.
What Are the Best Tank Mates for Barb Fish?
Barb fish like to have friends around. Pictus, molly, pleco and platy fish make good pals for them. Clown loach also get along well with barb fish. Rosy barbs are great buddies because they are calm.
Barbs feel safe with swordtails and red-tailed sharks too.
Harlequin rasboras can live happily with barbs. So can neon tetras, cherry barbs and Odessa barbs. Tinfoil barbs don’t mind sharing their space either. Dwarf gouramis love to hang out in the same tank as a barb fish.
Zebra Danios match the size of a tiger barb so they fit right in (source from IMPORTANT FACTS). Corydoras catfish, bristlenose plecos, Siamese algae eaters and rainbow sharks complete our list of top tank mates for your Barb fish!
1. Pictus
Pictus catfish make great tank mates for Barb fish. They come from the Amazon rainforest. Both Pictus and Barbs love to swim fast in the water. Being active fish, they have fun together.
Taking care of a Pictus is key for a healthy tank life. This catfish needs clean water and plenty of space to grow. It gets along well with Tiger Barbs, scoring a 5/5 on the compatibility scale! For more details about its size, lifespan and other tank mates, you can find a full guide online.
2. Molly
Molly fish are peaceful and compatible with many community freshwater fish. They can be kept with guppies, platies, cichlids, and gouramis without any issues. Despite their semi-aggressive temperament, molly fish can also coexist with tiger barbs.
Both molly fish and tiger barbs have similar levels of aggression, making them suitable tank mates. Molly fish are undemanding and add color to the aquarium while getting along well with other species.
3. Pleco
Plecos, also known as Plecostomus catfish, are peaceful and sociable fish that make good tank mates for other peaceful species. They can grow up to 3.5 inches in size, so they are more suitable for larger tanks with ample space.
Unlike some other fish, Plecos are rarely aggressive towards their tank mates. So if you’re looking for a compatible fish to keep with your Barb Fish, Plecos can be a great choice!
4. Platy Fish
Platy fish are a great choice as tank mates for barb fish. They come in many bright colors that can add beauty to your aquarium, especially when paired with cherry barbs. Just like cherry barbs, platy fish are very active swimmers, which makes them entertaining to watch.
Platy fish also get along well with mollies and other peaceful community fish like neon tetras, guppies, rosy tetras, dwarf gourami, zebrafish, angelfish and more. It’s important to keep in mind that platy fish are social creatures and prefer to be kept in groups.
So if you’re considering adding them to your tank with barb fish, make sure you have a small school of platy fish for them to thrive and feel comfortable.
5. Clown Loach
Clown Loaches are active and playful fish that can make great tank mates for Barb Fish. These loaches are known for their curious nature, and they often form strong bonds with other fish in their group.
To keep them happy, it is recommended to have at least five Clown Loaches together in a tank.
When it comes to tank mates, other bottom-dwelling fish like Kuhli Loach, Bristlenose Pleco, and Borneo Sucking Loach can be good companions for Clown Loaches. These fish share similar preferences in terms of habitat and behavior, which helps create a harmonious community.
Adding Clown Loaches to your aquarium not only brings personality but also enhances the overall dynamics of the tank. Their playful antics and social interactions add a lively touch that can be enjoyed by both you and your other fish.
6. Rosy Barb
Rosy Barbs are peaceful freshwater fish that make great additions to community tanks. They have a colorful appearance, which adds vibrancy to any aquarium. However, it’s important to note that Rosy Barbs can exhibit aggression at times.
Therefore, it is best to house them with peaceful and fast-moving fish that can keep up with their activity level. This ensures a harmonious environment for all tank mates. By choosing compatible fish in terms of behavior and compatibility, you can create a beautiful and balanced community tank with Rosy Barbs as one of the highlights.
7. Swordtails
Swordtails are a great choice to keep in the same aquarium as tiger barbs. They get along well with other fish like platy fish, Molly fish, Angelfish, Cory Catfish, and Rosy Barbs.
Swordtails can also be compatible with Common Plecos, Betta Fish, Bala Shark, Silver Dollar, Black Molly, Madagascar Rainbowfish, and Neon Tetra. One of the reasons why swordtails make good tank mates for tiger barbs is their size and confidence in a tank.
Swordtails can grow up to 6 inches in size and require an aquarium size of at least 10 gallons.
8. Red Tailed Shark
Red Tailed Sharks are semi-aggressive fish that prefer to be in groups. They can coexist peacefully with the right tank mates, which can help lower their aggression. When choosing tank mates for Red Tailed Sharks, it’s important to consider the size of the tank and compatibility with other fish.
These sharks have a lifespan of around 5-8 years.
9. Harlequin Rasbora
Harlequin rasboras are small, peaceful fish that make great tank mates for other barb species. They prefer to live in schools of at least eight to ten individuals or even larger groups.
Being shoaling fish, they feel more comfortable and secure when surrounded by their own kind. Harlequin rasboras have a similar temperament to other small fish like barbs and do not cause stress to each other.
They can peacefully coexist with their own species, creating a beautiful display in the aquarium.
10. Neon Tetra
Neon tetras are peaceful and friendly fish that can coexist with other small fish species in an aquarium. They get along well with dwarf gouramis, zebra danios, swordtails, guppies, harlequin rasboras, mollies, and cherry barbs.
Neon tetras are commonly found in tanks with other peaceful and non-aggressive fish. If you have tiger barbs or corydoras catfish in your tank, neon tetras will make good companions for them too.
11. Cherry Barb
Cherry barbs are peaceful schooling fish that thrive in a densely planted tank. They have a shy and timid nature, so it’s important to provide them with lots of hiding places and foliage.
These colorful barbs can add beauty to any aquarium with their vibrant red coloration. While they are not bottom feeders, cherry barbs will eat a variety of foods including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods.
With proper care and suitable tank mates, these charming fish can live for several years in an aquarium setting.
12. Odessa Barb
The Odessa Barb is a peaceful freshwater fish that can make excellent tank mates with other fish. They are compatible with Cherry Barbs, Tiger Barbs, Zebrafish, and Swordtail fish.
It is recommended to keep them in groups of around 5-6 individuals in a minimum 30-gallon tank. These barbs have a similar diet to Tiger Barbs and thrive in acidic water conditions.
Their peaceful nature makes them a great addition to community tanks.
13. Tinfoil Barb
Tinfoil Barb is a type of fish that prefers to live with other active swimmers in large tanks. They are peaceful and hardy, which makes them great for aquarium enthusiasts. It’s best to keep Tinfoil Barbs with other large fish like Bala shark, Silver Dollar, Clown Loach, and Pleco.
Since Tinfoil Barbs are schooling fish, it’s important to have at least six other barbs in the tank with them. Some suitable tank mates for Tinfoil Barbs include angelfish, silver dollar, arowana, bala shark, fire eel, and clown loach.
14. Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf gouramis are semi-aggressive fish that can be a good addition to your tank. However, it’s important to note that these fish may not get along well with other male gouramis. They have shy personalities, which makes them vulnerable to more aggressive or territorial species.
When choosing tank mates for dwarf gouramis, it is best to go for peaceful and similar-sized species. Cherry barbs are an excellent choice because they are small in size and easy-going.
Other suitable companions include mollies, swordtails, platies, rasboras, loaches, tetras, and catfish. However, it’s important to avoid placing dwarf gouramis with boisterous or fin-nipping fish like bettas and tiger barbs as they may cause issues in the tank.
15. Zebra Danio
Zebra Danios are fish that can get along well with many other types of fish. They prefer to be in an environment similar to what they are used to. One great tank mate for Zebra Danios is the Cory Catfish, as they both enjoy being in groupsand have similar water temperature preferences.
Another good companion for Zebra Danios is the Rasbora, which also thrives in a community setting. Zebra Danios can live peacefully with other like-minded fish in your aquarium.
16. Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras catfish are social creatures that prefer to live in groups of five to six fish. They are compatible tank matesfor other non-aggressive community fish, including tiger barbs.
However, it’s important to note that cherry barbs are not suitable tank mates for corydoras catfish. Some other compatible tank mates for corydoras catfish include fancy guppies, zebra danios, angelfish, amano shrimp, and tetras.
These catfish have similar tank requirements as tiger barbs and can also be kept with otocinclus catfish and swordtails. So if you’re looking for a peaceful addition to your aquarium community, consider adding some corydoras catfish!
17. Bristlenose Pleco
Bristlenose plecos are peaceful fish that can easily get along with other non-aggressive species in the middle and top sections of the tank. They are compatible with various types of fish, including guppies, tetras, mollies, platies, gouramis, cory catfish, cherry barbs, tiger barbs, and zebra danios.
Neon tetras, guppies, and mollies make excellent tank mates for bristlenose plecos. These bottom-dwelling algae eatersbring a sense of balance to the aquarium community by helping to clean up leftover food and maintaining the tank’s overall health.
Bristlenose plecos are known for their unique appearance with bristles on their noses but don’t worry – they won’t harm or bother other fish in your tank!
18. Siamese Algae Eater
Siamese Algae Eaters are fish that live at the bottom of the tank and they usually get along well with other fish. They are often mistaken for Siamese Flying Fox due to their similar appearance.
Some good tank mates for Siamese Algae Eaters include Bronze Cory, Guppy, Amano Shrimp, Apple Snail, Rosy Barb, Neon Tetra, Honey Gourami and Tiger Barb. These fish are commonly found in planted aquariums and can be compatible with Corydoras and Mollies too.
19. Rainbow Shark
Rainbow sharks are active and peaceful fish that make great tank mates for other peaceful species. They are especially compatible with fish that have a similar body shape, such as tiger barbs.
Zebra danios also make good companions for rainbow sharks because their playful nature can help calm down any aggression in the tank. It’s important to note that albino rainbow sharks can also be kept with compatible tank mates.
Overall, rainbow sharks are a great addition to community tanks with suitable tank mates.
What Fish Should Not Be Kept With Barb Fish?
Tiger barbs should not be kept with angelfish, betta fish, goldfish, guppies, fancy guppies, mollies, platies, gouramis, shrimp, snails, and tetras. Slow-moving fish may become targets for the active and sometimes aggressive nature of tiger barbs.
Long-finned fish may also not be suitable tank mates as they can get stressed by the boisterous behavior of the barbs. It is important to select compatible tank mates that can tolerate their energetic nature to avoid increased aggression and stress for all the fish involved in the aquarium.
1. Angelfish
Angelfish are beautiful and graceful freshwater fish that can be a stunning addition to your aquarium. However, when it comes to choosing tank mates for angelfish, you need to be careful.
Angelfish have a peaceful nature but can become aggressive towards smaller or slower-moving fish. So, it’s important to choose compatible tank mates that won’t get picked on by the angelfish.
One good choice for an angelfish tank mate is the zebra danio. These small and active fish are fast swimmers, which helps them avoid any aggression from the angelfish. Zebra danios also prefer similar water conditions as angelfish, making them excellent companions in the aquarium.
Just remember to provide plenty of hiding spots and space for each fish to establish their territory.
2. Betta Fish
Betta fish have a reputation for being territorial and aggressive, which can make them challenging tank mates. However, it’s important to note that female bettas are generally less aggressive than males.
Experienced fish keepers have successfully kept female bettas with other fish in the same tank. While betta fish may not be the best choice for community tanks, they can coexist peacefully with certain compatible species.
If you’re considering adding a betta to your aquarium, research which types of fish are suitable tank mates. Female bettas are also popular choices for community tanks, so it’s worth exploring what other fish can live harmoniously with them.
3. Goldfish
Goldfish are very social fish and enjoy the company of other goldfish. They thrive in a community tank with their own kind. If you’re looking for suitable tank mates for your goldfish, consider adding Hillstream Loach, Brochis multiradiatus, Dojo Loach or Bristlenose Pleco to the aquarium.
These fish can coexist peacefully with goldfish and create a harmonious environment in the tank. Remember to ensure proper water quality, temperature, and feeding habits to keep all the fish happy and healthy.
4. Guppies
Guppies are peaceful and social tropical fish that make great tank mates. They prefer to be with others who are similar in size and temperament. Suitable tank mates for guppies include swordtails, mollies, platies, and Cory catfish.
These fish will not harm or stress out the guppies in any way. Pygmy cory catfish, in particular, are excellent companions as they like to hang out in the mid-water levels of the tank.
So if you have guppies, consider adding these friendly fish to your aquarium community!
5. Fancy Guppies
Fancy guppies are a popular choice for freshwater fish tanks, especially in community aquariums. They are known for their vibrant colors and long flowing tails, making them a visually appealing addition to any tank.
However, it’s important to choose the right tank mates for fancy guppies to ensure they have a peaceful and stress-free environment.
One important thing to consider is the aggression of other fish towards guppies. Tiger barbs, for example, may not be the best companions for fancy guppies as they can display aggressive behavior and nip at the fins of their tank mates.
On the other hand, there are several species that can coexist harmoniously with fancy guppies. Suckermouth catfish like plecos or cory catfish are great options because they are peaceful bottom dwellers that won’t bother the guppies.
Swordtails, common molly fish, platy fish, harlequin rasbora, cardinal tetras and even pygmy cory catfish make good companions as well.
6. Mollies
Mollies are a good choice to keep with tiger barbs in your aquarium. They have a peaceful personality, which means they’re less likely to be bothered by their tank mates. Mollies can also live peacefully with red tail sharks without any issues.
However, it’s important to note that tiger barbs may nip at the lyre tail of the molly. One interesting thing about mollies and tiger barbs is that they are both livebearer fish, which means they can potentially produce a large number of baby fish called fry.
If you’re looking for other popular tank mates for mollies and tiger barbs, you might consider angelfish and guppies as well.
7. Platies
Platies are peaceful fish that get along well with other tank mates. They won’t cause any trouble or disrupt the harmony in your aquarium. These colorful livebearers come in a variety of vibrant hues, adding beauty to your tank.
Platies have a shorter and stockier body compared to mollies, another popular tropical fish species. If you keep male and female platies together, they can reproduce easily, so be prepared for potential baby platies! The size of the tank needed will depend on how many fish you have and their specific requirements.
8. Gouramis
Gouramis are a type of fish that can be kept as tank mates with Barb fish. There are different types of gouramis, such as dwarf gouramis, blue gouramis, golden gouramis, and three spot gouramis.
Dwarf gouramis are smaller in size compared to other species of gourami. They are considered semi-aggressive fish, especially towards other male gouramis. However, pearl gouramis can also be compatible tank mates for Barb fish.
9. Shrimp
Shrimp, particularly cherry shrimp and Amano shrimp, are popular additions to freshwater aquariums because of their vibrant colors. They are peaceful and social in nature, making them great tank mates for other fish.
When choosing tank mates for shrimp, it’s important to consider their compatibility and the well-being of the shrimp. Shrimp prefer a calm environment with non-aggressive species that won’t harm or eat them.
It is best to avoid housing them with larger fish that may see the smaller shrimp as food. Additionally, providing plenty of hiding places like plants and structures will help shrimps feel secure in the tank.
By selecting suitable tank mates and creating a comfortable habitat, your shrimp can thrive in their new aquatic community.
10. Snails
Nerite snails are not good tank mates for tiger barbs because they move slowly and become an easy target. Cherry barbs can also bite the antennas of nerite snails, which can harm them.
It’s important to note that many popular aquarium fish, including tropical fish like clown loaches, actually eat snails. This includes both freshwater and cold water species. However, if you do want some kind of pest-eating snail in your tank, the assassin snail is a good option.
They have striped shells and are known for their ability to control pests in the aquarium.
11. Tetras
Tetras are small, peaceful fish that can make great tank mates for Barb fish. One good option is the Neon Tetra, which gets along well with Tiger Barbs and has no negative interactions.
Another compatible choice is the Cherry Barb, which also coexists well with Tetras in a tank. If you’re considering adding Tetras to your aquarium, these species are worth considering due to their compatibility with Barb fish.
How to Introduce New Fish to a Barb Fish Tank?
Are you struggling to find the right tank mates for your barb fish? Well, you’re not alone! Tiger barbs can be quite aggressive, making it challenging to choose compatible companions. But here’s an interesting fact: with careful consideration and planning, you can create a harmonious community tank for your barbs. In this article, we’ll explore the best and worst tank mates for barb fish, providing you with helpful tips and recommendations along the way. Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of barb fish tank mates!
Feeding Barb Fish: Dietary Requirements and Impact on Tank Mates
Tiger barbs and other barb species are not picky eaters. They are omnivorous, which means they will eat both plants and meat. You can feed them a variety of foods like tropical fish flakes, pellets, or freeze-dried or frozen foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp.
It is important to provide them with a balanced diet to keep them healthy.
When feeding your barb fish, you should also consider the impact on their tank mates. Since tiger barbs can be aggressive and nippy, it’s best to avoid slow-moving or long-finned fish that may become targets for their aggression.
Choose tank mates that are similar in size and temperament to ensure compatibility.
It’s important to note that tiger barbs are opportunistic eaters and will try to devour any food given to them. This means you need to make sure all your fish get enough food during feeding time.
Monitor the feeding process closely and make adjustments as necessary.
Providing a varied diet for your tiger barbs is recommended in order to meet their dietary requirements as well as prevent boredom from eating the same food every day. By offering different types of food, you can mimic their natural diet in the wild while keeping them healthy and satisfied.
In conclusion, when it comes to feeding your barb fish, choose high-quality foods suitable for an omnivorous diet and consider the impact on their tank mates when selecting compatible companions in the aquarium.
Barb Fish Behavior With Different Tank Mates: What to Expect?
Tiger Barbs, known for their aggressive behavior, may not be the best tank mates for other fish. They have a tendency to nip at the fins of long-finned fish, including those from their own species or different species.
It is important to keep an eye out for any signs of aggression and provide plenty of hiding places in the tank. Mollies can be compatible tank mates if certain conditions are met, but cichlids should be avoided as they are not compatible with Tiger Barbs.
Aggressive behavior is common even within their own species, so it’s essential to choose tank mates carefully and monitor their interactions closely.
FAQ
Can Barb Fish Live Alone?
Barb fish are social creatures and they prefer to live with other fish in a community tank. They can become lonely, stressed, and aggressive if left alone without any tank mates of their kind.
It’s important to provide them with companionship to ensure their well-being. Keep in mind that poor tank conditions can also negatively affect the health of barb fish, so it’s essential to maintain a clean and suitable environment for them.
How Many Barb Fish Can You Keep Together?
To ensure a peaceful and harmonious tank environment, it is recommended to keep a group of 5 or 6 barb fish together. This helps reduce aggression among the fish and allows them to establish their natural schooling behavior.
Tiger barbs, for example, should be kept in groups of at least six, but if you have a larger tank, you can keep more. Cherry barbs are also good tank mates for tiger barbs and can be kept together in similar numbers.
Mollies and platies are other compatible options that can be added to the same tank as well. Remember, keeping barb fish in smaller numbers may lead to increased aggression and stress among the fish.
What to Do if Your Barb Fish Is Aggressive?
If your barb fish is aggressive, there are a few things you can do to help manage their behavior. First, make sure they have enough space in the tank. Aggressive behavior can sometimes be caused by overcrowding.
Adding more hiding places and decorations to the tank can also help create territories and reduce aggression. If the aggression continues, consider removing the aggressive fish and placing them in a separate tank or rehoming them altogether.
It’s important to monitor the tank mates for any signs of stress or injury caused by the aggressive fish.
What Are the Water Parameters That Tiger Barbs Require?
Tiger Barbs need specific water conditions to thrive. They like slightly acidic water with a pH level of 6-7 and slightly soft water with a hardness level of up to 10 dGH. The ideal temperature for them is between 74-79°F (23-26°C).
It’s important to keep these parameters in mind when setting up their aquarium to ensure their health and well-being.
What Are Some Other Types of Barbs That Can Be Kept With Tiger Barbs?
Some other types of barbs that can be kept with tiger barbs include the rosy barb, cherry barb, gold barb, black ruby barb, and zebra barb. These species have similar water parameter requirements and generally peaceful temperaments, making them compatible tank mates for tiger barbs.
It is important to provide enough space and hiding spots in the aquarium to minimize aggression among the different types of barbs.
What Are Some Common Issues That Can Arise When Keeping Tiger Barbs With Other Fish?
Keeping Tiger Barbs with other fish can sometimes lead to issues in the aquarium. One common issue is aggression. Tiger Barbs are known for their aggressive nature and may attack and nip at other fish in the tank, especially if they feel threatened or overcrowded.
Another issue is compatibility. Not all fish species get along well with Tiger Barbs, such as Cichlids, which should not be kept together due to their conflicting temperaments. Lastly, disease susceptibility is a concern.
Tiger Barbs are prone to common freshwater diseases like Ich, so it’s important to monitor their health and take appropriate measures if any signs of illness appear.
How Can You Tell if Tiger Barbs Are Compatible With a Certain Fish?
To determine if tiger barbs are compatible with a certain fish, you need to consider their behavior and size. Tiger barbs can be aggressive and nippy, so it’s important to choose tank mates that can handle their antics.
Look for active and fast-swimming fish that won’t be easily stressed or bullied by the tiger barbs. Also, make sure the potential tank mate is similar in size to avoid any problems with predation.
Avoid slow-moving or delicate fish, as they may become targets of aggression. Observing the behavior of your tiger barbs before introducing new fish can also give you an idea of their temperament and compatibility.