Black Ruby Barb (Pethia nigrofasciata)
From The Aquarium Wiki
Black Ruby Barb
Pethia nigrofasciata
57 Litres (15 US G.)
5.1-6.4cm (2-2.5 ")
Freshwater
6.0 - 7.0
22.2-26.1°C (72 -79 °F)
6-10 °d
1:3 M:F
3-5 years
Family
Cyprinidae
This animal is available captive bred
Contents
Additional names
- Ruby Barb, Black Ruby Barb, Purple-Headed Barb, Purplehead Barb.
Additional scientific names
- Barbus nigrofasciatus, Puntius nigrofasciatus
Origin
- The black Ruby Barb comes from forest streams in Sri Lanka.
Sexing
- Males have deeper colours.
Tank compatibility
- A good community fish and not a fin-nipper like its cousin the Tiger Barb, especially if it is kept in a shoal. Keep these fish in groups of at least 6 or more, with more females than males.
Diet
- Omnivorous, will take most aquarium foods and live foods. May also nibble on live plants. Occasional feeding of bloodworms are welcomed.
Feeding regime
- Feed once or twice a day.
Environment specifics
- A spacious tank with plenty of open swimming space. Provide them a good amount of lateral swimming room. They also like to have tall plants for cover. A darker substrate will showcase their colours very well.
Behaviour
- Shoaling, will keep themselves to themselves. The males will display to the females when courting.
Identification
- Typical high-backed Barb shape. Dark blue/black in colour with a rich crimson-coloured head. The female's colours are more muted with dark vertical bars visible.
Pictures
External links
- Fishbase (Mirrors:
)