Black Ruby Barb (5 pcs)

Black Ruby Barb is a peaceful, colorful freshwater barb native to the forest streams of Sri Lanka. Males develop a striking ruby-red head and deep black body during breeding or when in peak condition, making them a beautiful addition to planted community aquariums.

Quick Facts

• Scientific name: Pethia nigrofasciata
• Common names: Black Ruby Barb, Purplehead Barb
• Origin: Sri Lanka
• Adult size: 5–6 cm (2–2.5 in)
• Lifespan: 4–6 years
• Difficulty: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful, active schooling fish

Appearance

• Males develop a vivid ruby-red head with a velvety black body when mature.
• Females are larger, with a golden-brown body and less intense coloration.
• Both sexes have three distinct vertical black bands.

Ideal Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22–27°C (72–81°F)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: 2–12 dGH
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: Below 20 ppm

Aquarium Setup

• Minimum tank size: 75 liters (20 gallons)
• Keep in groups of at least 6–8, preferably 10 or more.
• Fine gravel or sand substrate.
• Dense planting with open swimming space.
• Driftwood and subdued lighting help enhance their colors.

Diet

Black Ruby Barbs are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet:

• High-quality flakes or micro pellets
• Frozen or live brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms
• Spirulina flakes and blanched vegetables (such as spinach or zucchini)

Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions.

Tank Mates

Good companions include:

• Other peaceful barbs
• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Danios
• Corydoras catfish
• Otocinclus
• Peaceful gouramis

Avoid:

• Large aggressive cichlids
• Very long-finned fish if the barbs are kept in too-small groups (a proper school greatly reduces fin-nipping).

Breeding

• Egg scatterer.
• Breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop is recommended.
• Eggs hatch in 24–36 hours.
• Fry become free-swimming in 3–4 days.
• Parents should be removed after spawning, as they may eat the eggs.

Care Tips

• Weekly 25–30% water changes help maintain vibrant coloration.
• Keep them in larger schools to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.
• A varied diet rich in live or frozen foods enhances the males’ ruby coloration.
• They look especially attractive in blackwater-style planted aquariums.