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.
In short: A black ruby barb needs at least 110 L (29 US gal), water at 22–27 °C (72–81 °F) and pH 6–7.5. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 6 or more, and rated beginner to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 22–27 °C (72–81 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Adult size
- 6 cm (2.4 in)
- Group size
- 6+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 22–27 °C (72–81 °F)
- 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
Will it fit your tank?
Sign in and AquaLog compares Black ruby barb against every tank you track — volume, water type, temperature and pH — then adds it to your livestock in one tap.
Sign in to check my tanks
