Black ruby barb
Pethia nigrofasciata · Cyprinidae
Also known as Purple-headed barb
Beginner
A Sri Lankan barb whose males turn deep ruby-black when displaying; grazes algae too.
- Minimum tank
- 110 L
- Temperature
- 22–27 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Adult size
- 6 cm
- Group size
- 6+
Will it fit your tank?
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Sign in to check my tanksCare requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 110 L
- Temperature
- 22–27 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Hardness
- 4–18 dGH
- Lifespan
- 3–6 years
- Diet
- Omnivore — flake, pellets, greens, frozen foods.
- Care level
- Beginner
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Sri Lanka
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Shaded forest streams
- Natural conditions
- Soft to medium water with cover and gentle flow.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 6 fish
- Swims
- Mid-water
- Good tank mates
- Cherry barbDaniosLoaches
- Avoid
- Long-finned fish in small groups
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Intermediate
- Sexing
- Males darken dramatically when spawning.
- Notes
- Egg scatterer among fine plants.
- Common ailments
- IchFin nipping
