ashlynmeredith

So, about a week or so ago, I got an aquarium and it's the first time in ten years, give or take, that I've kept fish for pets. I also went with fish that I've never had before, and picked the cute little tiger barbs because watching them at the store, they seemed like happy little fish. They're in a tank with my two danios, and they haven't done anything that I know of to be bad. They dont nip at them or chase the other two around or in anyway seem to be bothering them. But is it okay to keep them in there? I've heard they can be aggressive and I don't want them to end up fighting with the danios.
They seem to be content to just stare out at the side of the tank that reflects off of my vanity and swimming in and out of the little cave I have. And do they eat other fish eggs? If my female danio gets pregnant should I isolate her or will she be okay with them in the tank with her?

ATKINSON

Welcome to FishLore. I am afraid that tiger barbs will pick on other tank mates. Most tiger barb owners agree that if they are kept in schools of 8 or more they keep to themselves more. Also your 15gal tank is too small for an entire school of them. Maybe you could give the tiger barbs back to the petshop and get another 2 danios.That will be a cool, action packed tank. You could also add 3-4 cory cats for the bottom clean up or 4 kuhli loaches. They are fun to watch. Good luck!!

iloveengl

Hello

Unfortunately, I'm going be the bearer of a lot of bad news...

Unless you used TetraSafeStart, I'm guessing your tank isn't cycled. You may want to read about the nitrogen cycle asap (click the blue underline words). Basically, fish produce waste, which creates ammonia, which poisons your fish and kills them in a very painful way. I suggest returning your new fish asap and read up on cycling tanks.

Tiger barbs can most definitely be nippy at other fish (danios are mostly nippy among themselves), and as the tank they are currently in is too small for them and both danios and barbs prefer to school in at least 6, I imagine aggression will be going on once they get settled. Just my , though.

As for the danio eggs, I can speak from experience when I say when your female lays her eggs, everyone, including mom, will eat those eggs. Somehow, I had one fry survive after my gups and danios had a smörgåsbord...must've hidden amongst the gravel and plants.

Sorry. But maybe others will have different opinions. Best best best of wishes with your new tank, though!!!

Jaysee

I completely agree, except for the 3-4 corys. They need a larger school and anything less than a 20L (30") is too small for full sized corys.

Fish personalities do differ, and some tiger barbs can be kept in community tanks, but as a general rule they are best kept in a species tank - 20L is an absolute minimum for a small school. I keep 12 in a 29, with a crayfish. If I were you, I would take the tigers back and get 6 cherry barbs. They aren't active swimmers, but they exibit many of the same behaviors that the tigers do, just without that aggression.

aquarist48

Welcome to Fish Lore Ashly. So glad to have you come aboard. Lots of friendly people, tons of knowledge and many many years of experienced fish keepers.

Some great information in previous posts. Fish keeping has really changed over the years and for the better. The Nitrogen Cycle (as stated above) is crucial to fish keeping. Knowing your readings for ammonia, nitrites and nitrates, pH levels will help to keep your fish alive. What is most recommended is the API (liquid) Master test kit which includes tests for all of the above.

Since your tank is new and not cycled (according to your aquarium information you are unaware of the nitrogen cycle) I would like to suggest doing daily 30 to 50% water changes. Add some water conditioner called Prime. The Prime will detoxify the ammonia in the tank during the 24 hours until it's time for your next water change. You'll want to continue with the daily water changes until you have 0 ammonia, 0 nitrites and 5-10 nitrates.

I know you may find this a bit overwhelming but it will help to keep your fish from suffering the effects of ammonia poisoning.

As a "guide" it's suggested that you have 1 inch of adult size fish per gallon of water for smaller aquariums to prevent being over stocked. This will also help to keep your readings for ammonia, nitrite and nitrate where they need to be. (remember this is a guide and not a rule so to speak)

I know a lot of information is coming your way. We're here to help you all that we can. Ask all the questions that you need to.

Best wishes and good luck with your fish. We love photos around here as well when you have the chance and if you have the means.
Ken

Jaysee

All fish will eat fish eggs, which is why it's best to have them breed in a seperate tank set up to do the job. My dwarf rainbows spawn every morning, and the rest of the fish chow down - especially the corys. I've never seen any fry.

ATKINSON

Sorry Jaysee, i meant pygmy cories although I dont really have much experience with cories.