Black Ruby Barb Puntius nigrofasciatus

Grows to: 2.5"

Hobbyist Level:  A hardy and lively fish suitable for beginners.

How Many?  They are a schooling fish that should be be purchased in groups of 4 or more.  Six or more is best.

Housing:  Provide plenty of swimming room as well as some bushy plants for hiding.  They look best with a dark substrate.  They swim in the mid to bottom of the tank.  They enjoy a slow water current.  Minimum tank size is about 10 gallons. (Temperature- 72-82),  (pH 6.0-7.5)

Tank mates:  They are active fish that should be kept with other active fish of similar size which can include gouramis, large active tetras, other barbs, sharks, and catfish.  Do not mix with slow moving fish or fish with long fins as they may nip fins.

Feeding:  They will accept a variety of foods.  Feed flakes, along with brine shrimp and frozen foods.  They are an omnivore and should be given a diet that includes plenty of vegetable matter.

Natural Habitat:  Sri Lanka.   Fish sold at Elmer's are domestically raised.

Males and Females:  Males are darker and their color is brighter than females.  Also, males have a black dorsal fin, blackish-red anal fin and pelvic fins that appear reddish.  The base of all the vertical fins on a female will be black.

See also:  Barbs