Black Ruby Barb 3.5cm

Black Ruby Barb
 

Black ruby barbs have been a fairly recent entry into the aquarium hobby being available in the last few years. These are species that often don’t look that great in aquarium stores where they are often sold as juveniles so they honestly have become an underrated species. The true beauty of the black ruby barb is properly seen when they are kept in an established planted community aquarium. Being an active and larger growing barb species, this would fill out a tank with ease and look absolutely stunning once they mature. 

Black ruby barbs have such a unique colour gradient when compared to other aquarium fish. This naturally occurring transition of wine red from the nose to jet black in the tail contrasts really well against plants. There are also faint stripes that can be seen across the body and a vibrant emerald green sheen across the body as well. This unconventional mix of colouration is what makes these fish so species, especially when the males reach maturity and begin to display to females. The other great thing about these barbs is that they will also be a fantastic candidate for a blackwater system, the reds will look especially nice in the tea-stained water whilst standing out clearly. 

Black ruby barbs can be bred in the home aquarium just like many other barb species. Females will scatter the eggs through the tank which the males proceed to fertilize. Parents will however readily eat the eggs so if the intention is to breed them then it is best to have a dedicated breeding system. The native range of the black ruby barbs is the waterways of Sri Lanka.

Tank Recommendations for Black Ruby Barbs

The black ruby barb is a very active barb species and gets to a fairly decent size of around 8 cm. Because of this the minimum aquarium size would be around 70 liters, it is best to go for a longer aquarium for the active nature of these fish. In terms of the aquascape, a sand substrate is always best but a fine gravel substrate is also okay. Other hardscape options like driftwood and rocks can also be added however plants should basically be a must-have just to really highlight the colours of the barb. 

Suitable Tank Buddies

Black ruby barbs are reported to be a fin-nipping species however given enough space and being kept in a group should easily diffuse this behavior. If you are looking to be on the safer side, it would be best to avoid fish with long-flowing fins like angelfish or slow-moving fish like a discus. 

Usually Compatible

Apistogramma, Corydoras, plecos, dwarf cichlids, larger body tetras, torpedo barbs, and a wide range of peaceful community aquarium fish. Larger peaceful cichlids like Uaru or severums can also be considered.

Sometimes Compatible

Nano aquarium species such as endlers or guppies as well as neon tetras may be a bit too small and delicate for the boisterous nature of the black ruby barbs. Species with long flowing fins like angel fish or Lyretail mollies should be selected with caution. 

Rarely Compatible

Larger species such as Oscars, jaguar cichlids, African cichlids, and shrimp.

Feeding your Black Ruby Barb

Black ruby barbs like most common tropical aquarium fish are very easy to feed. They should be given a good quality, high protein pellet or flake food. They can also happily eat both floating or sinking pellets but a slow-sinking pellet would offer the best of both worlds. This should also be supplemented with frozen foods such as black worms, blood worms, or brine shrimp to bring out optimal health and colours in the fish.