The Black Ruby Barb is a freshwater fish known for its striking color change, particularly in males who develop a deep crimson head and dark body, while females have a tan body with three black vertical stripes. These are active, peaceful schooling fish that need to be kept in groups of six or more and have a lifespan of 5-7 years. They are omnivores and accept a varied diet, and their appearance improves significantly as they acclimate to a new tank, especially in a well-planted environment with dark decorations and hiding spots.
Appearance and sexual dimorphism
Males: Mature males develop a deep, ruby-red coloration on their head and a dark, sometimes purplish-black body. Their fins also take on color, with the dorsal fin being deep black and the anal and pelvic fins being dark red or purple.
Females: Have a pale or tan body with three distinct, dark vertical bars.
Juveniles: Both sexes start with a yellowish-gray body and black vertical stripes, with males showing hints of red as they mature.
Behavior and temperament
Schooling: They are a natural schooling fish and must be kept in groups of six or more to reduce stress and nipping behavior.
Activity: They are active swimmers that will explore the entire tank and appreciate a well-planted environment with open swimming spaces.
Peaceful: Black Ruby Barbs are generally peaceful but can be semi-aggressive towards slow-moving or long-finned fish, so it's best to avoid housing them with species like angelfish or bettas.
Habitat and care
Tank setup: A well-planted aquarium is ideal, with dark substrate and floating plants for cover.
Diet: They are omnivorous and will eat flake and pellet foods, as well as frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Water conditions: They can thrive in a wide range of water parameters and do not require a heater, but prefer stable conditions with regular water changes.
The Black Ruby Barb is a freshwater fish known for its striking color change, particularly in males who develop a deep crimson head and dark body, while females have a tan body with three black vertical stripes. These are active, peaceful schooling fish that need to be kept in groups of six or more and have a lifespan of 5-7 years. They are omnivores and accept a varied diet, and their appearance improves significantly as they acclimate to a new tank, especially in a well-planted environment with dark decorations and hiding spots.
Appearance and sexual dimorphism
Males: Mature males develop a deep, ruby-red coloration on their head and a dark, sometimes purplish-black body. Their fins also take on color, with the dorsal fin being deep black and the anal and pelvic fins being dark red or purple.
Females: Have a pale or tan body with three distinct, dark vertical bars.
Juveniles: Both sexes start with a yellowish-gray body and black vertical stripes, with males showing hints of red as they mature.
Behavior and temperament
Schooling: They are a natural schooling fish and must be kept in groups of six or more to reduce stress and nipping behavior.
Activity: They are active swimmers that will explore the entire tank and appreciate a well-planted environment with open swimming spaces.
Peaceful: Black Ruby Barbs are generally peaceful but can be semi-aggressive towards slow-moving or long-finned fish, so it's best to avoid housing them with species like angelfish or bettas.
Habitat and care
Tank setup: A well-planted aquarium is ideal, with dark substrate and floating plants for cover.
Diet: They are omnivorous and will eat flake and pellet foods, as well as frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Water conditions: They can thrive in a wide range of water parameters and do not require a heater, but prefer stable conditions with regular water changes.
