Origin
Native to the freshwater rivers and lakes of Borneo, Sumatra, and the Philippines. Typically found in slow to moderately flowing waters with dense vegetation.

Visual & Functional Appeal
Their tiger-like stripes and reddish body make them standout additions to planted tanks or riverine biotopes. They school tightly and dart around the mid to lower water column, adding motion and visual complexity.

Purpose
A lively mid-dweller that energizes community tanks. Can help distribute fish attention evenly, sometimes serving as a distraction in semi-aggressive setups.

Importance
Their robust health and adaptability make them great for aquarists looking to scale up from small community fish. They provide balance between aesthetics and interactivity.

Included Resources
Needs ample swimming space and well-oxygenated water. A soft substrate with driftwood and plants for cover enhances natural behavior. Secure lids are a must—these barbs are strong jumpers.

Best Use Cases
Southeast Asian river biotopes, large planted tanks, and mixed-species tanks with other robust community fish. Avoid delicate or slow-moving species as tankmates.

Conservation Context
Populations in some native areas are at risk due to habitat degradation. Encouraging captive-bred sources helps relieve pressure on wild stocks.

Ideal Aquatic Animals
• Rainbowfish
• Larger rasboras
• Yo-yo loaches
• Gouramis
• Larger barbs (Rosy, Tinfoil)

Region (A)
• Latitude: 1.5000° N
• Longitude: 113.5000° E
(Central Borneo – vegetated lowland streams)

Region (B)
• Latitude: 13.4100° N
• Longitude: 122.5600° E
(Southern Luzon, Philippines – freshwater river systems)