Good friends for tiger barbs

Neufusion

What kind of fish would make good companions for my 3 tiger barbs?

They seem to be a bit aggressive. They like chasing each around the tank all day.

I want to get a plecostomus because they look really cool and help keep the tank clean.

I am most interested in odd fish or fish that are really active and fun to watch.

Also, would a grassy plant be a good addition for the barbs?

musho3210

IF you want more fish, you will need at least 8 tiger barbs to create a pecking order and leave other fish alone.

Neufusion

I've now heard 3 different numbers from 3 different sources on how many tiger barbs I need.

The guy at the fish store said at least 3. So I got 3.

An article on the net says 6.

Now you are saying at least 8.

If you need 8 tiger barbs to not bother other fish, then that means 8 tiger barbs at full size (8 x 3") = 24" applied to the general rule (1" of fish per gallon) means that having tiger barbs and other fish in the same aquarium requires at least 24 gallons MINIMUM not counting the space for the other fish. Is this true?

Nobody has less than 8 tiger barbs with other fish?

Everyone that have tiger barbs with other fish have a tank size greater than 24 gallons?

musho3210

you made a big mistake, you listened to your lfs guy, never listen to them. Always listen to people who are not looking to make a profit, google them, do research on the internet, never rely on only one source

love_my_fish

The LFS will always say "at least 3" for any schooling fish

I don't know the best for minimum on tiger barbs, but I did have 4 at one time and only one made it past the first 6 months -- they were mean, especially to each other. I don't know if that is normal, or if I just had one real 'baddie'

Lupin

What species of plec is that? Trust me..You don't want a common plec in your tank. Pitbull plec, clown plec and bristlenose are good choices. If not, go with otos.

It's normal for tigers to bicker.:) I would avoid them and go with pentazonas instead.

herefishy

I think an 8" Oscar would make a great tankmate. lol

KishFeeper

lol thats what i was exactly going to say.