Tiger Barb - Albino - Puntigrus tetrazona var. "Albino" : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Albino Tiger Barb (Puntigrus tetrazona) represents an alluring variation within the Cyprinidae family, achieving prominence in the aquarium community through deliberate selective breeding efforts. This particular albino morph maintains the full spectrum of behavioural and physiological traits inherent to its progenitor, the conventional Tiger Barb. It is uniquely identified by its distinctive pinky-orange hue, red-tipped fins, and the replacement of traditional black stripes with white markings, a hallmark of its albino condition. The Albino Tiger Barb is celebrated for its lively and energetic nature, flourishing in aquarium settings that closely replicate its original habitats. Puntigrus tetrazona, a focal point of interest among aquarium enthusiasts, is valued not only for its visual attractiveness but also for its contribution to enhancing knowledge of aquatic biodiversity and the intricacies of ecosystem interactions.
Keeping Albino Tiger Barbs in groups of 8 to 10 individuals is recommended to ensure a harmonious aquarium environment. Large groups encourage interaction among the Tiger Barbs themselves, reducing the chance of aggression towards other species. Careful selection of tank mates is essential for peaceful coexistence with Tiger Barbs. Fish with delicate fins are less ideal due to Albino Tiger Barbs' fin-nipping tendencies. At the same time, fast-moving species like Danios, Platys, and most Catfish are considered compatible due to their similar activity levels. The Clown Loach is particularly well-suited as it not only lives peacefully with Albino Tiger Barbs but also mimics their schooling behaviour.
Albino Tiger Barbs are playful and active, requiring an environment that caters to their needs for optimal health. Soft, slightly acidic water conditions are preferable, though they are adaptable to various settings. A spacious area for swimming, enriched with live or artificial vegetation, proper lighting, and a fine substrate, is key to providing a stimulating and healthy habitat for these dynamic fish.
Tiger Barb - Albino Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Albino Tiger Barbs typically reach sexual maturity when they measure approximately 1.5 inches in total length, which generally corresponds to an age of about two months. At this stage, sexual dimorphism becomes apparent: females exhibit a larger size with a notably rounded abdomen and predominantly black colouration on the dorsal fin, whereas males are characterized by a vivid red nose and a conspicuous red line above the black region on their dorsal fin.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Puntigrus tetrazona var. "Albino" |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | Puntigrus |
| Origins | |
| Max Size | 8 cm |
| Temperament | Semi-Aggressive |
| Aquarium Level | Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 2 - 10 |
| ℉ | 68 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
Although Albino Tiger Barbs are a product of selective breeding and are not found in natural settings, their progenitors, the Tiger Barbs, possess a rich ecological background, with origins traced back to the verdant forests of Malaysia, Borneo, Thailand, Cambodia, and Sumatra. These fish have achieved international distribution, establishing populations in countries such as Australia, Singapore, Colombia, and the United States, a testament to their widespread popularity among aquarists globally.
In their indigenous habitats, Tiger Barbs flourish in serene water bodies characterized by rocky and sandy substrates, copious aquatic vegetation, and rivers shaded by dense foliage. Their diet is varied, encompassing algae, insects, invertebrates, and plant detritus, with a preference for pristine, well-oxygenated waters that contribute to the visual allure of their environments. Replicating such habitats for Albino Tiger Barbs in captivity demands a certain level of commitment but yields a dynamic and visually stimulating aquatic environment, rewarding the enthusiast's dedication.
Breeding
Successful Albino Tiger Barb breeding requires a dedicated aquarium for spawning and early development of the fry. This breeding tank should include fine-leaved plants and be filled with soft, slightly acidic water at a temperature somewhat higher than usual to stimulate spawning.
The tank's bottom should be bare or covered with a spawning substrate like mesh, marbles, or pebbles to prevent the adult fish from eating the eggs, thus enhancing the fry's survival rate.
For breeding, select six vibrant and healthy Albino Tiger Barbs, introduce them to the breeding tank, and monitor them until pairs form. Remove any unpaired fish and feed the pairs a diet of live foods to condition them for spawning. Spawning typically occurs in the early morning, with the female laying up to 200 eggs, which are immediately fertilized by the male.
After fertilization, promptly remove the adult fish to protect the eggs. The eggs will hatch within 36 hours; after 4-5 days, the fry begins to swim freely. Feed the fry newly hatched brine shrimp, transitioning to finely ground flake food as they grow, to ensure their healthy development.
Diet & Feeding
Maintaining the health and vigour of Albino Tiger Barbs necessitates a well-rounded and nutritious diet. Despite their adaptability in feeding habits, the foundation of their diet should be high-quality flake food to bolster their immune system. For nutritional completeness, it's recommended to supplement their diet with a mix of frozen, live, and freeze-dried foods, such as Bloodworms, Daphnia, and brine shrimp, which Tiger Barbs readily consume. These fish also prefer small aquatic invertebrates and lightly steamed vegetables. Providing a diverse array of food ensures that Tiger Barbs receive all the necessary nutrients, supporting their health and enhancing their vibrant appearance in the aquarium.
Other Barbs
42 More Barbs Profiles
View All