Can Tiger Barb Live With Jack Dempsey Cichlid?
Jack Dempsey Cichlid is aggressive and will likely attack or stress tank mates.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Tiger Barb | Jack Dempsey Cichlid | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74–82°F | 72–86°F | 74–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 6.5–8 | 6.5–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | semi-aggressive | aggressive | Aggression risk ✗ |
| Max Size | 3" | 10" | Size mismatch ✗ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 55 gal | 55 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Carnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Species Profiles
Tiger Barb
Puntigrus tetrazona
Tiger barbs are energetic, boldly-striped schooling fish that add constant motion and personality to aquariums. Their orange body with four distinctive black vertical stripes is instantly recognizable. They are notorious fin nippers when kept in small groups, but this behavior is easily managed by keeping 8+ together in a spacious tank.
Full care guide →Jack Dempsey Cichlid
Rocio octofasciata
Named after the legendary boxer, Jack Dempsey cichlids are large, territorial Central American cichlids with iridescent blue-green spangles across their dark body. They are aggressive, intelligent, and interactive — many owners report them coming to the glass to greet them. The electric blue Jack Dempsey variant is significantly less aggressive and more colorful.
Full care guide →