Can Tiger Barb Live With Pictus Catfish?
Tiger Barb and Pictus Catfish may coexist with careful monitoring, adequate space, and hiding spots.
Conditions: Minimum 55 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Tiger Barb | Pictus Catfish | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74–82°F | 75–81°F | 75–81°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | semi-aggressive | peaceful | Monitor ⚠ |
| Max Size | 3" | 5" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 55 gal | 55 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Tiger Barb + Pictus Catfish
To keep Tiger Barb and Pictus Catfish together, you need at minimum a 55 gallon tank. Tiger Barb should be kept in a school of 8+. Pictus Catfish should be kept in a school of 3+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
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 →Pictus Catfish
Pimelodus pictus
The Pictus Catfish (Pimelodus pictus) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish growing to 5 inches. Peaceful temperament, minimum 55 gallon tank.
Full care guide →