Can axolotls live with tiger barbs?
Verdict
No
No. Axolotls and tiger barbs should not share a tank. Axolotls are coldwater animals (60–66°F); tiger barbs need 72–81°F. No temperature suits both.
What to watch
- Deal breakerAxolotls are coldwater animals (60–66°F); tiger barbs need 72–81°F. No temperature suits both.
- Deal breakerFish nibble at axolotl gills, and axolotls swallow small fish. Keep axolotls on their own.
- Watch outTiger barbs nip at slow fish. Axolotls cannot get away.
What works
- pH 6.5–7.5 suits both.
- They use different parts of the tank: axolotls the bottom, tiger barbs the mid.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Axolotl | Tiger barb | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 60–66 °F | 72–81 °F |
| pH | 6.5–8 | 6–7.5 |
| Adult size | 10.0 in | 3.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal | 30 gal |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Semi-aggressive |
| Swims at | Bottom | Middle |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Groups of 6+ |
| Diet | Carnivore | Omnivore |
Better tank mates for tiger barbs
Questions
Can axolotls live with tiger barbs?
No. Axolotls and tiger barbs should not share a tank. Axolotls are coldwater animals (60–66°F); tiger barbs need 72–81°F. No temperature suits both.
What temperature suits both axolotls and tiger barbs?
None. Axolotls need 60–66 °F and tiger barbs need 72–81 °F, so the ranges do not meet.
What size tank do axolotls and tiger barbs need together?
At least 30 gal, set by the tiger barb. Add space for each extra fish.