Black Ruby Barb – Pethia nigrofasciata 3 cm

Origin & Habitat

• Native Range: Endemic to the forested streams of southwestern Sri Lanka, including the Kelani and Nilwala river basins.

• Natural Habitat: Cool, shaded, and slow-flowing waters with gravel or sand substrates. 

🐠 Appearance & Behavior

• Size: Adults typically reach up to 6.5 cm (2.5 inches); females are slightly larger than males.

• Coloration: Males exhibit a vibrant ruby-red hue, especially during breeding, while females display a more subdued coloration.

• Temperament: Generally peaceful and somewhat shy; best kept in groups of 6 or more to prevent stress-induced aggression. 

🏠 Aquarium Setup & Water Parameters

• Tank Size: Minimum of 20 gallons for a small group.

• Water Temperature: 22–26°C (72–79°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

• Aquascaping Tips: Provide a well-planted aquarium with dark substrates, driftwood, and floating plants to mimic their natural habitat and enhance coloration. 

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous; accepts high-quality flake foods, micro pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia.

• Feeding Frequency: Feed once or twice daily with an amount they can consume within 2–3 minutes.

🧬 Breeding Information

• Spawning Behavior: Egg scatterers; females lay eggs on the substrate, which hatch in 24–36 hours. To prevent adults from eating the eggs, place marbles or mesh at the bottom of the breeding tank.

• Raising Fry: After hatching, feed fry infusoria or finely crushed flake food until they are large enough to accept larger foods.