Black Ruby Barb
Pethia nigrofasciata
Black Ruby Barb is a peaceful middle swimmer.
Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.
Quick facts
- Adult size
- ≤ 5 cm (≤ 2 in)
- Care level
- Beginner
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swimming zone
- Middle swimmer
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C
- pH
- 5.5–7.5
- GH
- 5–12 dGH
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Lifespan
- up to 6 years
Care requirements
Care level: Beginner.
Because it uses the middle part of the aquarium, leave enough open swimming space instead of crowding that part of the aquarium.
The listed lifespan is up to 6 years.
Water parameters
The temperature range for this fish is 22–28 °C. Compare it carefully with the aquarium target temperature instead of assuming every tropical community setup is suitable.
The pH range for this fish is 5.5–7.5. That points to acidic to neutral water, but stability is more important than sudden corrections.
The GH range for this fish is 5–12 dGH. That gives some flexibility, but sudden changes are usually more stressful than a stable value that is slightly imperfect.
Temperament and compatibility
As a peaceful middle swimmer, Black Ruby Barb is best kept with calm species that will not harass it or dominate the feeding area.
Because this fish uses the middle part of the aquarium, compatibility is easier when other fish are not all competing for the same swimming space.
Swimming zone and behavior
This fish uses the middle part of the aquarium, so leave enough open swimming space for movement and feeding.
Feeding
As an omnivore, Black Ruby Barb should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.
Before adding this fish
- Choose other fish with overlapping temperature needs.
- Keep pH stable within the listed range instead of making sudden corrections.
- Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
- Offer a varied diet that matches this species.
Similar fish profiles
Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.
FAQ
How large does Black Ruby Barb get?
Black Ruby Barb reaches ≤ 5 cm (≤ 2 in). Provide swimming room.
Is Black Ruby Barb peaceful?
Yes. Black Ruby Barb is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.
What temperature is suitable for Black Ruby Barb?
The temperature range for this fish is 22 to 28 °C. Choose other fish with overlapping temperature needs and avoid sudden temperature swings.