Description
Tiger Shark (Garra taeniata / Epalzeorhynchos spp. – freshwater “Tiger Shark” variant)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Garra taeniata (common freshwater Tiger Shark variant)
Common Names: Tiger Shark, Striped Shark, Freshwater Tiger Shark
Family: Cyprinidae (Carps & Minnows)
Order: Cypriniformes
Origin: Southeast Asia — rivers and streams in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia
Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm) in captivity
Lifespan: 6 – 10 years
Tank Zone: Mid to bottom dweller; active and territorial
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 100 – 250 ppm
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)
Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Body: Elongated body with silver-gray coloration and dark tiger-like vertical stripes, slightly upturned mouth for grazing on algae.
Behavior: Semi-aggressive, territorial toward similar species; active and energetic swimmer.
Swimming Style: Constant mid-to-bottom-level swimmer; scrapes algae from surfaces.
Unique Feature: Hardy algae grazer; often mistaken for other freshwater sharks.
Nature: Active and hardy; needs ample swimming space to reduce aggression.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), high-quality sinking pellets, occasional live/frozen foods
Feeding: Once or twice daily
Tip: Provide algae-rich diet to maintain health and natural coloration
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons (210 L) for a single adult; larger preferred for multiple
Filtration: Strong filtration with moderate water flow; active swimmers produce moderate waste
Decor: Open swimming areas with driftwood, rocks, and hiding spots
Lighting: Moderate to highlight stripes
Water Change: 25% weekly for clean and stable water
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: Can be kept alone or in groups of 3+ in large tanks
Tank Mates: Peaceful mid to large fish; avoid small, slow-moving, or delicate species
Avoid: Overcrowding or keeping with very aggressive fish
✅ Do’s
Provide ample swimming space and hiding spots
Maintain stable water parameters and moderate current
Offer algae and vegetable-rich diet
Monitor for territorial behavior
❌ Don’ts
Don’t keep in small tanks — will become stressed and aggressive
Don’t neglect water quality
Don’t house with very small or delicate fish
⭐ Quick Tips
The Tiger Shark is a hardy, semi-aggressive freshwater fish known for its striking tiger-like stripes and energetic behavior.
Ideal for medium to large aquariums, it is an excellent algae grazer and adds dynamic activity and visual interest to the tank.
Best suited for aquarists who can provide ample space and stable water conditions.
