Black Ruby barb

Common name(s) Black Ruby barb, Purple-headed barb, Ruby barb Picture of Black Ruby barb
© Sean Evans
A male Black Ruby barb in breeding colours.

Scientific name Puntius nigrofasciatus

Synonyms Barbus nigrofasciatus (not valid)

Size 2.5" (6cm)

Origin Sri Lanka

Tank setup Planted tank with some open swimming space, avoid overly bright lighting, or provide shade with floating plants.

Compatibility A lively but normally peaceful community fish. Keep in a shoal.

Temperature 21-26^oC (70-79^oF)

Water chemistry Fairly soft, slightly acidic preferred (pH 6.5-7), especially for breeding

Feeding Omnivorous, most foods accepted, include a vegetable component in the diet.

Sexing Breeding males show the intense red/black colour (see photo) and tend to be a little larger, though females have a thicker body shape.

Breeding For spawning, water should be soft and at the higher end of the temperature range. Spawning usually takes place in the morning, with the eggs being scattered among plants. The adults will eat the eggs if given the chance. Eggs hatch in about 24 hours and the fry become free-swimming several days later.

Comments Juveniles have a colour and striped pattern similar to the Tiger barb, but breeding males change colour quite dramatically, as shown in the photo.

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This website was last updated on 18th January 2008

Common name(s)	Black Ruby barb, Purple-headed barb, Ruby barb	© Sean Evans A male Black Ruby barb in breeding colours.
Scientific name	Puntius nigrofasciatus
Synonyms	Barbus nigrofasciatus (not valid)
Size	2.5" (6cm)
Origin	Sri Lanka
Tank setup	Planted tank with some open swimming space, avoid overly bright lighting, or provide shade with floating plants.
Compatibility	A lively but normally peaceful community fish. Keep in a shoal.
Temperature	21-26^oC (70-79^oF)
Water chemistry	Fairly soft, slightly acidic preferred (pH 6.5-7), especially for breeding
Feeding	Omnivorous, most foods accepted, include a vegetable component in the diet.
Sexing	Breeding males show the intense red/black colour (see photo) and tend to be a little larger, though females have a thicker body shape.
Breeding	For spawning, water should be soft and at the higher end of the temperature range. Spawning usually takes place in the morning, with the eggs being scattered among plants. The adults will eat the eggs if given the chance. Eggs hatch in about 24 hours and the fry become free-swimming several days later.
Comments	Juveniles have a colour and striped pattern similar to the Tiger barb, but breeding males change colour quite dramatically, as shown in the photo.