Puntigrus

Puntigrus is a genus of ray-finned fish in the family Cyprinidae, commonly known as minnows and carps. The genus currently contains only one recognized species, Puntigrus tetrazona. This species is also widely known by its common name, the tiger barb, due to its distinctive orange to reddish-orange body marked with four vertical black stripes. Tiger barbs are native to the river basins of Sumatra, Borneo, and Cambodia in Southeast Asia.

In their natural habitat, Puntigrus tetrazona inhabit clear, flowing streams and rivers, often found in areas with dense aquatic vegetation. They are omnivorous and their diet consists of small invertebrates, algae, and plant matter. Tiger barbs are a popular species in the aquarium trade and are often kept in freshwater community tanks. Their active and somewhat boisterous nature, coupled with their attractive coloration, makes them appealing to aquarists. However, their nipping behavior towards more placid fish means they are best kept with conspecifics or similarly hardy species.

Puntigrus tetrazona are sexually dimorphic, with females typically being plumper and less intensely colored than males. Males often develop a reddish hue on their nose and forehead during breeding season. They are egg-layers and typically spawn in dense vegetation. The species is considered to be of Least Concern by the IUCN, although local populations can be affected by habitat degradation and overfishing for the aquarium trade. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting their natural riverine environments.