Glofish barbs were introduced for the first time in 2015, when they were still relatively new. They are, in my opinion the best-looking fish of the glofish family.

These fish have an unusual look due to the contrast of black stripes and fluorescent colors. This makes them stand out from other glofish species.

They have been around for more than five years and I was shocked to discover that very little information is available about caring for glofish barbs.

So I decided to give you detailed, accurate and simple-to-follow information that will help you take care of your pets and make sure they are raised in the best possible way.

Let’s get started, so let’s not waste any time!

Glofish Barb Quick Introduction

Name	Glofish Barb
Original Species	Tiger Barb
Family	Cyprinidae
Origin	Captive-bred
Care Level	Simple
Temperament	Semi-aggressive
Breeding	Egg-layer
Diet	Omnivore
Maximum Size	3 inches
Minimum Tank Size	20 gallons
Temperature	74-79 degrees F (23-26 degrees C)
pH	6.0-7.0

The original species of Glofish barb, tiger barbs (also known as glofish barb), was originally from Asia’s Malay Peninsula and Sumatra, Thailand, Cambodia, and Thailand.

They are not listed on the IUCN Red List as they are not considered endangered.

By genetically altering tiger barbs, glofish barbs were made in laboratories. They are almost identical to the original species, except for their bright disposition.

Pricing is a concern. A deluxe collection, which includes 8 glofish barbs, will cost you about $69.99.

Although I couldn’t find pricing information for buying one tiger barb anywhere online, it would probably run you between $8-10 if you wanted to purchase just one.

Glofish Barb Lifespan

Glofish barbs are similar to the original species and can live up to 7 years if taken care of properly. If they are given the right care, they can live for up to seven years.

You shouldn’t be surprised if they live longer! It’s possible to make them live longer if you take the right care.

Glofish Barb Appearance

Contrary to most glofish varieties, which are based on fish with low melanin to maximize fluorescence expression, striped glofish barbs can produce melanin.

They have a stunning ‘high-contrast look’ that is unmatched by other glofish species.

Glofish barbs retain four black vertical stripes that look like tigers, despite their color morph. These black bands cover many prominent areas and are thick.

One goes through the eye and the other extends beyond the dorsal fin. The base of the caudal Fin is marked by the last band.

Glofish Barb Body Shape

Glofish barbs are round and deep with a pointed head, arched back, and a round body.

The body of a glofish barb is the tallest at its middle point, and taper down to a triangular nose.

They are shaped in the shape of spear points.

Females tend to be larger and more round than males.

Glofish Barb Colors

Glofish barbs were initially available in only two colors when they first came out: electric green and starfire red. They are now available in stunning colors such as sunburst orange or galactic purple.

By inserting fluorescent protein genes from jellyfish or other marine organisms into embryos of tiger barbs, the first generation of glofish Barbs was created.

Generations have passed on the beautiful colors and iconic glow of glofish barbs.

All rumors of glofish being dyed or painted are false. It is a genetic trait that glofish have a unique glow and color.

Oh, science!

Glofish Barb Size

These fish aren’t big enough to be considered a nuisance. They usually reach 3 inches in length. Some prodigies can grow a little longer than that, however.

There is no definitive answer as to how long glofish barbs can grow. It’s more subjective and dependent on factors such as the environment, genetics, diet, and other factors.

However, the most common solution for glofish barbs is 3 inches.

Their growth rate is expected to be in the quarter- to half inch range approximately every six weeks.

It takes them anywhere from 4 to 6 months for their full potential to grow in the right environment.

Glofish Barb Male Vs. Female

Male Glofish barb barbs are typically smaller than their female counterparts. The females’ bodies are more round, especially in the abdomen.

Glofish Barb Temperament

Glofish Barbs can be described as semi-aggressive fish. Tiger barbs have been known to chase and nip the fins of slow-moving and timid fish.

Their tendency to chase, bite and push is actually more irritating than it is harmful.

Glofish barbs don’t fear being surrounded by plants and caves all day. They are outgoing, sporty and curious, instead.

If there is enough space, barbarians can spend considerable time exploring and swimming in the water.

Glofish barbs, as you know, are schooling fish. They need to be able to move and live in schools.

They will show their mean side whether you keep them alone or in small groups of 2 or 3. They will become frustrated and lash out at their tankmates who are unfortunate enough to be in the same tank.

They will chase and push other slow-moving tanks, and even nip at their fins.

They will be more likely to keep to themselves if they are kept in small groups of at least six. Even more complex is their hierarchy and pecking order.

They are not afraid to engage in duels to try to dominate the group.

This should lead to the conclusion that they should be kept in groups of six or less and should have plenty of space so that there is no fighting over territory.

Glofish Barb Tankmates

Glofish barbs are the best tankmates. These fish are more happy when they are kept in groups.

For a striking display, I recommend setting up a tank for each species with at least half a dozen glofish barbs in each color.

However, there are fish that make great tankmates for your glofish barbs.

Some of these are:

• Clown loaches
• Platies
• Danios
• Rosy Barbs
• Tinfoil Barbs
• Cherry Barbs
• Pictus Catfish
• Neon Tetras
• Plecos
• Corydoras
• Pictus Catfish

My favorite fish among the ones I have mentioned is clown loaches. These bottom-dwellers can be peaceful and social, and will even go to school with your glofish barbs. They’ll act the same way as you do.

No matter how many glofish barbs you keep or how large the tank, never keep them with slow-moving, docile and long-finned species such as angelfish, bettas and goldfish.

Avoid putting small crustaceans or invertebrates in glofish barbs’ aquariums as they will be a nuisance to the fish and bully them relentlessly.

Other aggressive tank mates to avoid include:

• Oscar cichlids
• Red-tailed Sharks
• Flowerhorns
• Green terror cichlids
• Firemouth cichlids
• Jack dempseys

How many Glofish Barbs should be kept together?

Glofish barbs are schooling fish. You should aim for at least six of them to be kept together in a tank. The more, the better.

These fish have an instinct to learn and are naturally inclined to school. To protect themselves and to forage food, they have evolved to swim in unison.

It is not a good idea to take away their natural instinct to swim. You will only fuel their aggression and stress.

In the end, your glofish barbs, even in small numbers, will live a miserable life marred by loneliness, anxiety, and a bad attitude.

Glofish Barb Diet

The predecessors of Glofish Barbs ate mainly on plants, zooplankton and worms in the wild.

Glofish barbs can eat almost any food you give them. They will eat almost any food you offer them. As a responsible hobbyist, it is important to offer them a variety to keep their appetites satisfied.

As a staple food, you should include quality flake foods or pellets made with high-quality materials. Then, you can add frozen foods such as beef heart, blood worms, and brine shrimp to their diet.

They will occasionally eat small invertebrates or blanched vegetables.

Glofish barbs need a diverse diet to keep their immune systems strong and their vivid colors vibrant.

The algae in the tank is also a favorite food for glofish barbs. However, the algae won’t be enough to meet their nutritional needs.

Here is a complete list of foods you can serve your glofish barbs.

• High-quality pellets
• Flake Food
• Daphnia
• Brine shrimp
• Freeze-dried Bloodworms
• Beef heart
• Blanched cucumber
• Blanched zucchini
• Cucumber

The official manufacturer behind these fish has launched its own line of commercial food products.

This is a link to Glofish Special Flake Food, which has a proprietary recipe. It contains nutritious ingredients such as shrimp meal, brown rice, fish meal and fish oil.

Here’s a link to my favorite Hikari Biopure Freeze-Dried Bloodworms. It’s bio-encapsulated and packed with multi-vitamins.

How Often And How Much To Feed Glofish Barbs?

Every day, you should have 2-3 meals of Glofish Barbs.

Give them a time limit of 3 minutes.

Water Parameters for Glofish Barbs

Here’s a quick look at the water parameters for glofish barbs.

• Temperature: 74-79 degrees F (23-26 degrees C)
• pH: 6.0-7.0
• General Hardness 5-19 dGH
• Ammonia – 0 PPM
• Nitrite – 0 PPm
• Nitrate: Below 20%
• Water Movement Moderate
• Swimming Area Middle

Tiger barbs are small fish. They don’t produce large bioloads. They must be kept together in large groups to produce significant amounts of waste.

You must be aware of your water parameters. These fish require 25-30% water change every other week.

However, there is no set rule. For instance, water changes can be adjusted based on the size of your tank and stocking levels.

In the wild, Tiger barbs live in swamps and lakes. The water they live in is slightly acidic because of the decaying plant matter.

You should aim to replicate similar water conditions in your glofish barb’s tank.

We recommend that water quality be tested every week to ensure water parameters are correct. API’s Freshwater Master Kit is recommended for this purpose.

Recently, I discovered that liquid-based tests are much more reliable than strip-based ones.

If you would like to take a look at API’s most-loved product, here’s a link:

The buildup of organic matter may cause a rise in nitrates or phosphate levels over time. This can increase water’s hardness. You should monitor the pH levels of water at all times.

It’s simple things like removing any unattended food, topping up water levels and performing routine water changes that will keep your tank clean and your glofish happy.

Here are some things you can do to keep your glofish tank healthy on a daily basis, weekly and monthly basis.

Things to check daily:

• Observe the behavior of the fish by counting and observing it.
• All equipment should be manually inspected
• Temperature settings
• Remove leftover food
• Turn up the water level

Things to check weekly:

• Clean the tank’s exterior surfaces
• Remove all debris from decorations and plants
• Take out the inner glass.
• Siphon substrate
• Do a partial water changing
• Conduct water tests

Things to check monthly:

• As needed, prune live plants
• Clean rocks and decorations thoroughly
• Complete all tasks on the weekly list
• Change the filter media

Minimum Recommended Tank Size for Glofish Barbs

For glofish barbs, the minimum tank size is 20 gallons. However, I strongly recommend that you allocate at least 30 gallons to these active and finicky fish.

According to their official website, the largest size tank for glofish is 10 gallons. This is not only misleading, but can also kill your fish very quickly.

Glofish barbs are small fish, barely growing over 3 inches. However, they’re active and territorial fish.

A 30-gallon tank is the minimum requirement.

This is something I’ve said a million times but I will repeat it again: small tanks can be dangerous for your fish’s health.

Small tanks are easier to maintain than they appear on the surface. However, this is far from the truth.

Small tanks are more volatile than large tanks. Any slight change in one corner of a tank can have an impact on the entire tank. Fish don’t like sudden, big changes. They can be thrown into shock.

A second reason is that toxic buildup can occur much faster in small tanks. A small amount of leftover food, for example, can cause a dramatic increase in ammonia levels, while it can be diluted in a large tank without any significant consequences.

Also, territorial disputes can be directly caused by a lack of space. Stress is a result of disputes. Stress can also lead to a decrease in the production of white blood cell. The fish’s immunity will be affected.

Finally, small tanks can hinder your glofish barbs’ physical growth because they don’t allow for much exercise.

Substrate And Decorations For Glofish Barbs

A sandy substrate, preferably dark, can bring out the best colors in your glofish barbs.

For shelter, you can also use fine gravel with cobbles or large rocks.

Glofish barbs, like all barb species feel most at home in well planted aquariums. They also require open areas to swim in.

They don’t have to be surrounded by aquarium decor, but they will enjoy the presence of rocks, driftwoods and plants as a refuge when they feel threatened or shy.

Algae and aquatic plants that are submerged in water will provide shelter and food for your glofish barbs.

Place the plants at the corners and sides of the aquarium so that there is plenty of room for swimming.

All plants should be capable of growing to the middle-levels in a tank. For this reason, water wisteria or java fern are recommended.

These plants also require very little maintenance.

Driftwoods can also be added to help maintain the water’s pH. However, you should treat them thoroughly before putting them in the tank.

Don’t get too excited about decorations and plants. Swimming space should always be your number one priority.

Finally, add an aquarium cover. These mischievous and active fish can jump out of your tank!

Recommended Equipment For Glofish Barbs

Glofish barbs can be tough, so it is important to provide quality equipment that will not fail you. Warm water and stable temperatures are essential to the wellbeing of glofish barbs.

We have reviewed many different equipment to come up with the top picks for an air filter, heater, or pump.

These are the links. These links are available for your convenience.

AquaClear 30 Fish Tank Filter

We love

• Pumps that are energy-efficient lower operating costs
• Filtration services available in mechanical, chemical and biological modes
• Large chamber for filter media
• Lifetime guarantee

Hiccup:

• Can be loud

Fluval M50 Submersible Heater

We love

• Reflective technology built-in mirrors colors
• Made from shock-resistant glass
• Slim profile tube
• 3-year warranty

Hiccup:

• It can be difficult to regulate the thermostat.

Tetra Whisper Easy to Use Air Pump

We love

• Amazon has thousands of positive reviews
• Quiet operation
• Sound-dampening chambers

Hiccup:

• Pumps can be loud

Breeding Glofish Barbs

Let’s first examine the legality of breeding glofish barbs before we get into the details.

According to their official website you cannot intentionally breed glofish.

If you have fish from both sexes in your tank, they will eventually produce fry. If your fish produce some fry, I doubt that they will pursue you with legal papers.

You must make sure that you don’t trade or barter your glofish offspring.

Let’s now get down to the details.

Preparing the Breeding/Fry Tank

The parents of glofish barbs don’t take care of their children. They will eat them every chance they get.

It is therefore essential to have a separate breeding facility.

Your tank should not exceed 10 gallons. The fry that hatch will not be able to find food if the tank is larger than 10 gallons.

A sponge filter is also recommended to ensure that your fry don’t get sucked in.

The water parameters of the tank should be as close as possible to that of the original tank. To separate the eggs and parents, you can add a spawning system.

Encouraging To Breed

Tiger barbs don’t mate for life. They are instead temporarily-paired spawners. This means that they will mate with a new partner each time they spawn.

Once you have found a bonded pair of birds, add the female to the breeding tank first. Once the female has hatched, add the male to the breeding tank.

When ready to pair, male tiger barbs will develop a reddish snout and richer colors. These traits may not be seen in glofish barbs, however.

Condition the pair by feeding them a variety live foods, such as brine shrimp or bloodworms. Your glofish will also be encouraged to breed by performing a water change and using a sprinkler system. These techniques are similar to the rainy seasons that their forebears experienced in the wild.

The Mating Ritual

The ritual of courting usually begins in the late afternoon. Both male and female will first swim around one another.

To lure the female, the male may even do a headstand and spread out his fins. This can go on for quite some time.

The morning will see the spawning. In a matter of hours, the female will lay many hundreds of eggs. The male will chase the female and nip her all the time.

Females typically release between 1 and 3 eggs per day.

Glofish barbs are not known to lay eggs in one place, as they are egg scatterers. The tiny, adhesive eggs can be spread on any substrate, decorations, plants and in every crevice.

Once the parents have finished spawning, transfer them quickly to the main tank.

Caring For The Fry

Within 26-48 hours, the eggs will turn into tiny wigglers. They will initially eat the yolk sac attached to their bodies.

After they are free-swimming (which takes approximately 5 days), you can give them liquid fry food and baby brine shrimp.

Your fry’s diet must be carefully monitored. You’ll need to quickly give your fry something else if they are refusing to eat the food you offer.

This is because glofish fry at this stage are extremely fragile and susceptible to starvation.

When they have grown enough to be safe for consumption, you can transfer them into the main tank.

These articles will help you to see the glofish eggs, babies, and other details.

What does a Baby Glofish look like? Photos And Videos!

What do Glofish Eggs Look like? Photos And Videos!

Glofish Barb diseases

Glofish barbs are a hardy species. There is nothing to worry about as long as the water conditions are right and the food is good.

However, glofish barbs can be susceptible to common illnesses that all freshwater fish suffer from.

One example of such a disease is ich, which is caused by parasitic protozoans. Poor tank maintenance and polluted water are two of the most common causes of ich.

It is extremely contagious and manifests in tiny white spots all over the body. The entire population of glofish can be reduced if the correct intervention is not taken in the right time.

We swear by This is a link to the Ich-X solution by Hikari.

An increase in tank ammonia, nitrogen, or nitrate levels can cause serious damage to your fish’s health. Reddened gills, increased mucus production, and panting are all signs of toxic fish.

Finally, extreme temperature changes, pH, hardness and undue stresses can reduce a glofish’s immunity and make them more susceptible to disease. You should be vigilant about their environment.

Final Words: Glofish Barb Care Guide

The glofish barbs are the most strikingly beautiful fish in the glofish family. They are even more remarkable because they have kept their distinctive stripes despite genetic modification.

These fish are also beginner-friendly, so you won’t make the same mistakes as others.

If you’ve brought home glofish barbs, we hope this guide is helpful. Please let us know what you think in the comments.