Black Ruby Barb

Pethia nigrofasciata

Displaying males turn red in front and dark behind; colour varies with state.

Mature males develop reddish-purple heads and forebodies while the rear body and fins darken. Females and quieter males remain less colourful.

Natural habitat: Inhabits cool, shaded forest streams over sand or gravel, including quiet marginal pools of clear streams and rivers.

Interpret colour with sex and condition.

Appearance and identification

Body bars vary in visibility. Unlike an Odessa male's horizontal band, the display colour is concentrated toward the front.

An 80 × 30 cm base with at least 6–10 fish; keep planted cover and room for the adult group.

Provide varied prepared foods, small live or frozen foods and some plant content.

Check companions' size, activity and water requirements.

Plant and floating cover can provide shade.

Sources