Black Ruby Barb (Pethia nigrofasciata)

Family: Cyprinidae

Black Ruby Barb — a Cyprinidae from South America. Reaches 4.5–6.6 cm; keep at 22–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6–6.5
GH hardness
5–12 dGH
Adult length
4.5–6.6 cm
Minimum tank
52 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins
Origin
South America

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species native to South America: Pethia nigrofasciata lives bottom-dwelling over gravel. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Adults reach 4.5–6.6 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Pethia species we profile, alongside Pethia atra, Pethia conchonius, Pethia cumingii.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams and rivers over gravel
Flow
Moderate, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates well-oxygenated water

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine gravel and sand
Hardscape
Water-worn stones and driftwood
Plants
Hardy rooted plants along the margins

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Black Ruby Barb easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Black Ruby Barb need?

Hold 22–26 °C and keep it stable — 22–26 °C recorded range. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin.

How big does Black Ruby Barb get, and what tank size?

Expect 4.5–6.6 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 52 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Black Ruby Barb eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. It forages naturally over fine gravel and sand, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Black Ruby Barb live with other fish?

Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Black Ruby Barb come from?

Its home waters are South America — clear streams and rivers over gravel, with moderate, well-oxygenated current.

Does Black Ruby Barb jump?

Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.

How does Black Ruby Barb breed?

In the aquarium: egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.