Can Swordtail live with Tiger Barb?
Caution — with care
Why
- Tiger Barb is a fin-nipper and will shred the long/flowing fins of Swordtail.
Sweet spot: both do well at 74–82°F and pH 7–8 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Swordtail | Tiger Barb | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 74–82°F |
| pH | 7–8.4 | 6–8 |
| Hardness (GH) | 12–30 dGH | 4–15 dGH |
| Adult size | 5.5" | 2.75" |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive | Semi-aggressive |
| Min tank | 29 gal | 20 gal |
Together, plan on at least 29 gallons.
How to make it work
- Keep the nipper in a bigger group (8+) to spread out the nipping, and avoid long-finned tankmates.
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Design a tank with Swordtail, Tiger Barb →Everything compatible with Swordtail · …with Tiger Barb