Our Guide To Keeping Black Ruby Barb Fish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Pethia nigrofasciata
- Common name: Black Ruby Barb
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Origin: Myanmar (Burma)
- Adult length: 5 cm
- Lifespan: 5 to 7 years
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Tank Setup:
- Black Ruby Barbs thrive in a tank of at least 75 litres with ample swimming space and hiding spots. They prefer densely planted tanks with subdued lighting.
- Provide a substrate of fine gravel or sand and include driftwood and rocks to mimic their natural habitat.
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Water Parameters:
- Keep the water slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
- Maintain the water temperature between 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- Use a filter with gentle to moderate water flow as Black Ruby Barbs prefer calm waters.
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Diet:
- Black Ruby Barbs are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet of high-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
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Tank mates:
- Black Ruby Barbs are peaceful community fish and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals. They are compatible with other peaceful species such as tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids, and small catfish.
- Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species that may stress them.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Black Ruby Barbs are active and peaceful fish that display schooling behavior, especially in larger groups. They coexist well with other community fish and are generally peaceful.