Tank setup
A minimum 75L aquarium suits Black Ruby Barb. Provide hiding spots and stable water — this species thrives in a well-filtered community setup.
Where to buy
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
The Black Ruby Barb undergoes a dramatic transformation. In its juvenile and non-breeding state, it is a silver-gold fish with several dark vertical bars. However, breeding males develop an incredible deep, ruby-red head and a jet-black body, making them one of the most stunning freshwater fish available. They are generally peaceful but can be a bit timid, so they should be kept with other calm tank mates. A planted tank with slightly acidic water will bring out their best coloration and behavior. Keeping them in a group is essential for their well-being.
Key traits
barb
peaceful
community
small
colorful
schooling
omnivore
breeds in captivity
Compatibility
Select a tank to see how this species fits.
Care guide
Everything you need to keep Black Ruby Barb healthy in a South African setup.
Water parameters
Keep pH 6–7 and 22–26°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers — acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Black Ruby Barb is omnivore. Feed a varied diet appropriate for freshwater fish — quality flakes, pellets, or frozen foods sized to the mouth.
Behaviour
Black Ruby Barb is generally peaceful. Keep in a group where possible for natural behaviour.
Tankmates
Pair with similarly sized peaceful tankmates in freshwater fish. Avoid fin-nippers or species that outgrow this fish.
Breeding
Breeding notes for Black Ruby Barb vary by line and water chemistry — ask your local shop about proven pairs in SA.
Settling this fish in?
Condition the tap water, seed the filter, test through the first weeks — most early losses trace back to one of those.
3-PIECE KIT
Availability confirmed with the distributor before dispatch · free delivery over r750
Community photos
From hobbyists across SA.
Photo by FishHubAdmin
Often kept with
Real pairwise verdicts for Black Ruby Barb, not a same-category guess. Always confirm adult size and your tank's specifics before buying.
- Often kept together
Pristella Tetra
Pristella maxillaris
In a 75L+ tank
- Often kept together
Giant Gourami
Osphronemus goramy
In a 1000L+ tank
- Often kept together
Crystal Black Shrimp
Caridina cantonensis var. 'Crystal Black'
In a 75L+ tank
- Often kept together
Corydoras Julii
Corydoras julii
In a 75L+ tank
- Often kept together
Red-bellied Pacu
Piaractus brachypomus
In a 1500L+ tank
- Often kept together
Orange Sakura Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi var. 'Orange Sakura'
In a 75L+ tank
- Often kept together
Black Phantom Tetra
Hyphessobrycon megalopterus
In a 75L+ tank
- Often kept together
Bubble Eye Goldfish
Carassius auratus
In a 75L+ tank