Black Ruby Barb – Pethia nigrofasciata

Scientific Name: Pethia nigrofasciata
Common Name: Black Ruby Barb

The Black Ruby Barb is a striking freshwater schooling fish known for the dramatic transformation mature males undergo as they develop deep ruby-red coloration across the head and body with rich black markings. Females and juveniles typically display a lighter golden-silver body with distinct vertical bands, making mature males especially impressive when kept in a healthy, established group.

Native to Sri Lanka, Black Ruby Barbs naturally occur in shaded freshwater environments associated with forested streams. They are active, social fish that make an excellent addition to planted and appropriately sized community aquariums.

Care Level: Easy–Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful / Active
Adult Size: Approximately 2.5–3 inches
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Temperature: Approximately 68–79°F
pH: Approximately 6.0–7.5
Diet: Omnivore
Recommended Group Size: 6 or more

Recommended Setup: Provide a well-filtered aquarium with plenty of open swimming room along with live plants, driftwood, rocks, and shaded areas. A planted setup with darker substrate can create an especially attractive display and provide strong contrast against the coloration of mature males.

Feed a varied diet of high-quality flakes, small pellets, and other appropriately sized prepared foods. Their diet should include vegetable matter along with supplemental frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia.

Behavior & Tankmates: Black Ruby Barbs are generally peaceful schooling fish and are typically less troublesome than some of the more notorious fin-nipping barb species. They are best maintained in a group of at least 6, which encourages natural social behavior and allows males to display their coloration and interact with one another.

Suitable tankmates include similarly sized peaceful-to-active community fish with compatible water requirements. As with any active schooling species, adequate swimming space and an appropriately sized group are important.

Male vs. Female: Mature males typically develop the species' characteristic ruby-red head and darkened body, particularly when displaying or in breeding condition. Females generally remain lighter and retain more visible vertical markings. Juveniles may look considerably different from fully mature adults.

Please Note: Coloration, markings, size, maturity, and sex naturally vary between individual fish. Younger specimens may not yet display the dramatic black and ruby coloration seen in mature males. The fish you receive may differ from the individual pictured.

Available Quantities: Individual fish and discounted group options are available. For their long-term well-being and natural social behavior, we recommend keeping Black Ruby Barbs in a group of 6 or more.

All livestock from Felipe’s Fish is carefully selected and prepared for safe transport. Please review our shipping and Live Arrival Guarantee policies before ordering.