Black Ruby Barb
With their deep ruby red color, black ruby barb fish are a true gem of freshwater aquariums. They’re schooling fish with a similar body type to that of other barb fish.
 
Key Features
Scientific Name: Pethia nigrofasciata
Common Name: Black Ruby Barb, Purple Headed Barb
Origin: Sri Lanka
Max Size: approximately 8cm
 
Care Requirements
Diet: Omnivore
pH: 6.5 – 7
Temperature: Tropical 26-28°c
Breed Type: egg layer
Sex: Un-sexed
 
Temperament
Their interesting color schemes and generally peaceful demeanor recommends them as a suitable candidate for community fish.
 
Notes
In the wild, their populations have significantly diminished due to deforestation and over-catching. At one point their levels were so low, that black rubies were on the brink of extinction.
In the aquarium trade, black ruby barb fish come from commercial breeding and as a result have developed multiple color variations.
Wild-caught specimens are no longer available in the aquarium trade after Sri Lanka banned their export.
They’re omnivorous fish that do well in community tanks being significantly less nippy than their tiger barb cousins.
If you’re curious about the black ruby barb and how to care for it, I will introduce you to the basics of feeding, breeding and caring for ruby barbs.