Can Tiger Barbs and Zebra Danios Live Together?

Yes, usually. Tiger barbs and zebra danios like the same water: 70–77 °F (21–25 °C) and a pH of 6.5–7.5. Tiger barbs spend their time in the middle and zebra danios near the top, so they stay out of each other's way. Tiger barb can be pushy, so watch for chasing in the first week.

Verdict
Yes, usually
Shared temperature
70–77 °F21–25 °C
Shared pH
6.5–7.5
Smallest tank for both
40 gallon breeder

Tiger Barbs and Zebra Danios, side by side

Tiger barbZebra danio
Adult size2.8 in7 cm2 in5 cm
Smallest tank30 gal114 L20 gal76 L
Keep8 or more6 or more
Temperature70–81 °F21–27 °C64–77 °F18–25 °C
pH6–7.56.5–8
TemperamentSemi-aggressivePeaceful
SwimsIn the middleNear the top

What size tank do they need together?

Each row shows how many of each the tank carries comfortably when these are the only two kinds in it.

TankTiger barbZebra danio
5 gallonToo small for both
10 gallonToo small for both
20 gallon longToo small for both
29 gallonToo small for both
40 gallon breeder97
55 gallon1210
75 gallon1713
125 gallon2822

Open this pair in the stocking calculator to add more fish or try your own tank.

How to make it work

  • Add the calmer, smaller fish first, and the tiger barb last.
  • Use plants, wood or rocks to break up the view across the tank. Fish that cannot see each other all day fight less.
  • Watch closely for the first week. Torn fins, hiding or a fish that stops eating mean it is not working.
  • Keep a spare tank or a divider ready, so you can separate them the same day.

Questions and answers

Can tiger barbs and zebra danios live in the same tank?

Yes, usually. Tiger barbs and zebra danios like the same water: 70–77 °F (21–25 °C) and a pH of 6.5–7.5. Tiger barbs spend their time in the middle and zebra danios near the top, so they stay out of each other's way. Tiger barb can be pushy, so watch for chasing in the first week.

What size tank do tiger barbs and zebra danios need together?

At least a 40 gallon breeder tank, which carries about 9 tiger barbs and 7 zebra danios comfortably.

What temperature suits tiger barbs and zebra danios?

70–77 °F (21–25 °C) suits both.

More pairs

Based on each species' adult size, water range and temperament (Seriously Fish, FishBase) and the rules of our stocking calculator. Individual fish differ: this is a guide, not a guarantee.