Albino Red Tiger Barb|2-3cms | Single
The Albino Red Tiger Barb is a strikingly beautiful variant of the Tiger Barb (Puntigrus tetrazona), characterized by its pale, albino body and deep reddish-orange stripes. This unique coloration, coupled with the classic energy and playful temperament of Tiger Barbs, makes it a fascinating choice for freshwater aquarium enthusiasts.
Key Characteristics
- Scientific Name: Puntigrus tetrazona
- Size: 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm)
- Lifespan: 5–7 years
- Coloration:
- Pale pink or white body with reddish-orange stripes.
- Vibrant red or orange fins.
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive, especially in smaller groups.
- Tank Level: Active mid-level swimmers.
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Hardness: 5–15 dGH
- Water Quality: Stable and clean water conditions with moderate flow.
Tank Setup
Tank Size:
- Minimum 20 gallons for a school of 6 or more.
Substrate:
- Dark sand or gravel to make their coloration stand out.
Decor:
- Use live or artificial plants, driftwood, and smooth rocks to provide hiding spots.
- Leave open swimming spaces for their active nature.
Lighting:
- Moderate to bright lighting to enhance their reddish-orange tones.
Filtration:
- A reliable filter with moderate water circulation is essential.
Diet
- Type: Omnivorous.
- Preferred Foods:
- High-quality flakes or granules as a staple.
- Frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
- Occasional vegetable matter like spinach or zucchini.
- Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times a day in small portions.
Behavior and Tank Mates
Behavior:
- Highly active and social; prefers schools of 6 or more to reduce stress and aggression.
- Can nip fins of slower, long-finned fish.
Suitable Tank Mates:
- Other barbs like Rosy Barbs and Cherry Barbs.
- Fast swimmers such as Zebra Danios or Odessa Barbs.
- Bottom-dwellers like Corydoras or small Plecos.
Avoid:
- Long-finned or slow-moving fish such as Bettas and Angelfish.
- Timid species like Neon Tetras.
Breeding
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Process:
- Set up a separate breeding tank with a temperature of 78–80°F and soft, slightly acidic water.
- Add fine-leaved plants or a spawning mat for egg-laying.
- Remove adults after spawning to protect the eggs.
- Fry Care:
- Feed infusoria or liquid fry food initially, then transition to baby brine shrimp.
Care Tips
- Perform weekly water changes (20–30%) to maintain water quality.
- Keep in groups to reduce aggression and encourage natural behavior.
- Provide a varied diet to enhance their health and coloration.
- Monitor tank dynamics to ensure compatibility with other fish.
Why Choose Albino Red Tiger Barbs?
- Their stunning red stripes and pale albino body create a unique visual appeal.
- Active and entertaining, they bring life and movement to aquariums.
- Hardy and relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for intermediate aquarists.
Conclusion
The Albino Red Tiger Barb is a vibrant and energetic addition to freshwater aquariums. Their stunning appearance and lively personality make them a standout species in community tanks. With proper care and attention to their social and dietary needs, they can thrive and become a centerpiece in any aquatic setup.