Black ruby barb

The black ruby barb is a stunning small cyprinid endemic to the southwestern 'wet zone' of Sri Lanka, where it is restricted to the Kelani and Nilwala river basins. Males in breeding condition develop a spectacular deep ruby-red head and anterior body contrasting with a jet-black posterior, making them one of the most attractive barbs in the hobby. Adults reach only 5-5.5 cm (2-2.2 inches), and export of wild specimens from Sri Lanka is currently prohibited, so all fish in the trade should be commercially bred.

This is a very peaceful, schooling species that should be maintained in groups of at least 6-10 individuals to bring out the best colour and social behaviour. A planted aquarium of at least 80 litres with a dark substrate, driftwood, and floating plants provides an ideal showcase for their colours. Filtration does not need to be particularly strong, though some water movement is appreciated. They are excellent community fish, compatible with similarly-sized tetras, danios, rasboras, and peaceful bottom-dwellers. Males will display intensely to one another during courtship without causing harm.

Water conditions: 20-27°C, pH 5.5-7.5, with soft to moderately hard water — farm-raised specimens are adaptable across this range. Diet is omnivorous: quality dried flakes and granules supplemented with small live and frozen foods such as bloodworm, Daphnia, and Artemia. Including vegetable matter in the diet enhances colour and condition. The black ruby barb is a prolific egg-scatterer with no parental care, and fry can be raised on infusoria and microworm. Its peaceful nature, stunning breeding colours, and manageable size make it a perfect choice for the planted community aquarium.