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The Green Tiger Barb is a color variety of the tiger barb, sold under the scientific name Puntigrus tetrazona var.. Its metallic green body, crossed by dark bands, gives it a highly active appearance in a planted aquarium. Like the standard form, this variety is a schooling fish that should be kept in a group to reduce chasing and fin nipping between individuals. It suits aquarists looking for a lively, hardy fish that accepts a wide range of foods. This variety is very common in the aquarium trade, but it still requires carefully selected tankmates and enough open swimming space. A stable aquarium, good water quality and a socially appropriate group are the keys to keeping it in good condition.

General species description

Puntigrus tetrazona var. is a captive-bred variety of a tiger barb related to the family Cyprinidae. Its lively schooling behavior is most apparent when it is kept in a group of at least six individuals. A larger group helps distribute social interactions and can reduce persistent attention toward one fish. Despite its small size, it remains energetic and usually occupies the middle levels of the aquarium. It is generally hardy when the water is clean, well oxygenated and regularly renewed. However, it may nip very peaceful tankmates or fish with long fins. Plants around the edges, roots and a good open frontage provide cover without blocking its swimming area. This green variety is widely available and should not be mistaken for a separate species.

Geographical origin and biotope

Reference countries: Indonesia, Malaysia and nearby areas of the Malay Peninsula, depending on the population assigned to the species. The aquarium green form is a selectively bred variety; its natural habitat therefore corresponds to the base species rather than to a distinct wild locality. Tiger barbs inhabit forest streams, tributaries and quiet areas associated with floodplains. The water may be clear to slightly tea-colored, with sunlight filtered by riverside vegetation. Fallen leaves, branches and roots provide shelter and organic material on the bottom. In the aquarium, soft to moderately mineralized water, moderate flow and efficient filtration better reflect these conditions than very strong current or a completely bare setup. Darker areas and dense cover can also help the fish display more confidently.

Precise location and local name

The species is associated with Sumatra, Borneo and the Malay Peninsula, particularly in lowland river basins. The Indonesian name ikan Sumatra, meaning Sumatra fish, is often used in the aquarium trade, along with commercial names such as Tiger Barb and Sumatra Barb. The green variety is not a separate wild population: its color comes from selection within captive-bred lines. Fish sold in stores are generally produced commercially, which explains their regular availability and broad adaptation to aquarium conditions. They should preferably be purchased as a group rather than singly to support normal social behavior. A layout with plants, wood and open swimming areas recalls the habitat mosaic used by the species. Avoid overcrowding, especially in smaller aquariums.

Appearance and physical characteristics

Puntigrus tetrazona var. has a short, deep and laterally compressed body, with a distinctly arched dorsal profile. Its base color ranges from olive green to metallic green, while dark vertical bands create the familiar tiger pattern. The fins may show reddish or orange tones, especially in healthy mature fish. The reflective scales strongly catch the light, making the green effect change with illumination and viewing angle. As in the standard form, the fins are relatively short, which suits a fish that is constantly on the move. Mature males are often slimmer and more intensely colored, particularly around the fins and snout. Females are usually deeper-bodied, especially when carrying eggs. Sexing becomes easier with mature fish kept under stable conditions and fed a varied diet. Color intensity can also vary among individual breeding lines.

General diet

Puntigrus tetrazona var. is an opportunistic omnivore that readily accepts quality dry foods. A staple of small-carpid pellets or flakes can be supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia and mosquito larvae. Small portions given once or twice daily are preferable to one very large meal. A varied diet supports green coloration, growth and overall condition. Foods containing some plant matter may also be offered because the species consumes plant material and small prey in nature. Removing uneaten food helps maintain good water quality, especially in a densely stocked aquarium. Juveniles should receive particles small enough to swallow easily, while adults can accept slightly larger pellets. Feeding different foods on alternating days is a practical way to provide variety without overfeeding.

Essential data

• Native river name: Musi River, in the Sumatra basin
• Local name used: Ikan Sumatra
• Origin of the scientific name: Puntigrus is a genus name created for tiger-patterned barbs; tetrazona retains the former specific name
• Full-name etymology: Puntigrus combines Puntius and tigrus, referring to a barb-like fish with a tiger pattern; tetrazona means four zones or bands
• Common/vernacular names: Green Tiger Barb, Green Sumatra Barb, green tiger barb
• Family: Cyprinidae
• Subfamily: Barbinae
• Name pronunciation: poun tee gruss tet rah ZOH nah
• Discovery: Pieter Bleeker, 1855
• Maximum adult size: About 7 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 22 to 28 °C; pH 6.0 to 8.0
• Stream appearance and surrounding vegetation: Forest tributaries, quiet or moderately flowing areas, roots, branches, leaf litter and dense vegetation
• Typical tankmates: Harlequin rasbora, three-lined rasbora, leopard danio, Pangio kuhlii, dwarf Ancistrus and peaceful small loaches
• Temperament and behavior: Active, schooling and sometimes nippy; keep in groups of at least six
• Water depth: Shallow to moderate, in tributaries and vegetated margins
• Sexual dimorphism: Males are often slimmer and more colorful; females are deeper-bodied
• Bottom structure and flow: Sandy, silty or gravelly bottom, plant debris and low to moderate current

For aquarium success

To succeed with Puntigrus tetrazona var., provide an aquarium with a long swimming area, well-oxygenated filtration and a sufficiently large social group. Plants and roots reduce stress, but leave open space through the center. Avoid slow, timid tankmates or species with very long fins, which may be nipped. Regular water changes, varied foods and a stable temperature encourage strong green coloration. Since this variety is very common, select active fish with intact fins and a normally rounded belly. A balanced population allows natural schooling behavior without creating unnecessary conflict. Careful stocking and consistent maintenance usually make this a rewarding community fish.