Can Gold Barb live with Silver Arowana?
High risk due to water mismatch, aggression, or predation.
Why Gold Barb and Silver Arowana Don't Make an Easy Pair
The size gap is 33.0" — Gold Barb (3.0") and Silver Arowana (36.0"). A fish that fits in another fish's mouth will eventually end up there.
Gold Barb
Puntius semifasciolatus
| Adult Size: | 3.0" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 20 gal |
| Temperature: | 64-77°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-8.0 |
Silver Arowana
Osteoglossum bicirrhosum
| Adult Size: | 36.0" |
| Temperament: | semi-aggressive |
| Min Tank: | 250 gal |
| Temperature: | 75-82°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-7.5 |
Water Parameter Overlap
| Parameter | Gold Barb | Silver Arowana | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 64-77°F | 75-82°F | 2°F ✓ |
| pH | 6.0-8.0 | 6.0-7.5 | 1.5 ✓ |
Compatibility Breakdown
Temperament Match: peaceful + semi-aggressive. Semi-aggressive → watch territory and feeding.
⚠️ Size Predation Risk: Gold Barb (3.0") vs Silver Arowana (36.0"). A 33.0" gap — the larger fish will view the smaller fish as food.
⚠️ Diet Conflict: A carnivore sharing water with a fish small enough to fit in its mouth is a waiting game. Feed generously, but the risk is structural — not something you can manage meal by meal.
Score: 40.0/100 (GOOD ≥80, CAUTION ≥50, RISKY <50).
🔧 Tank Setup Requirements (for Both)
- Minimum tank: 250 gallons — sized for the larger fish in the pair.
- Temperature: keep it between 75°F and 77°F.
- pH: maintain 6.0 – 7.5.
- Hiding spots: essential for Gold Barb — caves, plants, or driftwood to retreat when feeling stressed.
- Water changes: 25% weekly minimum. Two species mean double the bioload.
🔧 Tank Stocking Calculator
Enter tank size to calculate safe stocking levels:
Recommended Equipment
Based on tank size 250+ gallons:
Floating food sticks for large carnivorous surface feeders
Explore Related Checks
See what else works with these fish:
Accuracy note: This tool uses expert rules + FishBase.org data. Individual fish behavior varies — a peaceful individual Gold Barb may act differently from its species average. Always observe, quarantine new arrivals for 2-4 weeks, and avoid overcrowding. If a pairing says CAUTION, start with a smaller group and a lid.