Barb Black Ruby

*Males go a black colour in breeding season

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. Their interesting color schemes and generally peaceful demeanor recommends them as a suitable candidate for community fish. 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. They’re omnivorous fish that do well in community tanks being significantly less nippy than their tiger barb cousins.

• Species – Pethia nigrofasciata
• Common Name – Black Ruby Barb, Purple Headed Barb
• Origin – Sri Lanka
• Diet – Omnivore
• PH Range – 6.5 – 7
• Temperature – Tropical 26-28°c
• Breed Type – egg layer
• Max Size – approximately 8cm
• Sex – Un-sexed