Black Ruby Barb (Pethia nigrofasciata)

Remarks: Black Ruby Barbs are native to Sri Lanka, where they live in forest streams in the hills. Females retain a juvenile pattern similar to that of a Tiger Barb - golden body with three black stripes. Males, however, begin to darken around 1.25", turning nearly solid black in the latter half of their body and a deep ruby color in their face and chest. In order to see this coloration, we recommend a minimum of 8 fish to form a nice school, where males can battle over dominance by flaring their fins and strengthening their colors. This also helps prevent fin nipping as it keeps their focus off other species.