Can tiger barbs live with bala sharks?
Verdict
Yes, with care
Yes, with care. Tiger barbs and bala sharks can share a tank, but watch one thing. A grown bala shark may treat small tiger barbs as food, especially at night.
What to watch
- Watch outA grown bala shark may treat small tiger barbs as food, especially at night.
- Watch outBala sharks grow to 13 inches and need 125 gallons, far more than a tank set up for tiger barbs.
What works
- Both are fine at 72–81°F.
- pH 6.5–7.5 suits both.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Tiger barb | Bala shark | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–81 °F | 72–82 °F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Adult size | 3.0 in | 13.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 30 gal | 125 gal |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive | Peaceful |
| Swims at | Middle | Middle |
| Group | Groups of 6+ | Groups of 4+ |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore |
Better tank mates for tiger barbs
Better tank mates for bala sharks
Questions
Can tiger barbs live with bala sharks?
Yes, with care. Tiger barbs and bala sharks can share a tank, but watch one thing. A grown bala shark may treat small tiger barbs as food, especially at night.
What temperature suits both tiger barbs and bala sharks?
72–81 °F. Tiger barbs need 72–81 °F, bala sharks need 72–82 °F.
What size tank do tiger barbs and bala sharks need together?
At least 125 gal, set by the bala shark. Add space for each extra fish.