Black Ruby Barb (Pethia nigrofasciata)

Quick Overview The Black Ruby Barb (Pethia nigrofasciata), naturally originating from the shaded, clear-water forest streams of Sri Lanka, is an absolute masterpiece of the freshwater hobby. While young juveniles display a modest, silver-yellow body with three dark vertical bands, they undergo a spectacular transformation as they mature. Dominant males “fire up” into a jaw-dropping deep velvet black or dark purple, accented by a glowing, ruby-red head and snout. Maxing out at an manageable 2.5 inches, they offer the bold look of a Tiger Barb but with a much more relaxed, community-friendly temperament.

Tank Requirements & Local Care Tips

• Care Level: Beginner (Extremely hardy, active, and adaptable)

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 Gallons (Must be kept in schools of 6 or more; keeping them in a proper group distributes their playful energy and makes the males show off their best colors)

• Water Temperature: 22°C to 26°C (Appreciates well-oxygenated water)

• Temperament: Peaceful to Semi-aggressive (Significantly more peaceful than Tiger Barbs, making them excellent community fish when schooled properly)

Bacolod Hobbyist Tip: In a bright, completely bare tank, Black Ruby Barbs can feel exposed and will look washed out or faded. To unlock that deep, rich, velvet-red and black coloration, you need to replicate their native jungle habitat!

We highly recommend using dark aquasoil or gravel, adding plenty of driftwood roots, and incorporating dense live plants like Cryptocorynes or Java Moss to create shaded pockets. Feeding them high-quality foods rich in natural carotenoids will also dramatically accelerate their color development.

Drop by our Bacolod pet shop today to pick up premium color-enhancing flakes, dark aquarium substrates, and a healthy, active school of Black Ruby Barbs!