This black-ruby barb is a tranquil small, gorgeous barb that comes from forested rivers in Sri Lanka, off the southern coast of India. The best description is that it is a friendly all-consuming tank companion, it might be a bit secluded from being over-competing by larger, more carnivorous species of fish. It is found in the wild and over-collection and deforestation have put the species in threat.
Origin and Distribution
The ruby barb originated in Sri Lanka, where it was once abundant in forests that flowed through the higher elevations of the Kelani as well as the Niwala River basins. Black Ruby Barb Purple-Headed Barb Fish What do baby birds eat This habitat native to Sri Lanka is composed of thick vegetation and slow-moving water that are cooler than other tropical regions. The water flowing through these streams is acidic and soft and the bed of the river consists of fine gravel or sand.
The population has dramatically reduced due to over-fishing by the people selling the fish to export markets in the trade in aquariums. The rapid deforestation process has also destroyed large portions of the habitat for these gorgeous fish. In the past they were in danger of extinction, but they are now considered vulnerable according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Only with the right conservation strategies can they be viable species within the natural world.
From 2020, export of wild-caught and caught ruby barbs from Sri Lanka is prohibited. The majority of the specimens offered for sale in the market for aquariums are commercially bred from Sri Lanka or in a several other countries that breed commercially aquarium fish. The commercial breeding process has led to the development of a range of different colours and fin morphs, which are compared to wild species.
Colors and Markings
With a pointed head, higher back and a deep body the ruby barb shares a the body shape to other barbs with bands like the barb called the tiger. Three large black bands are woven along the length of the body. When a fish is young the body color is light green to yellowish-gray. As the fish grows older, the head turns purple-red in hue. Males’ entire body changes to this red hue once they reach the age of breeding. 
Both genders may lose shade when they’re scared, stressed or suffer from a condition or inadequate treatment. It’s commonplace to see pet shop specimens to appear drab and then return to their vibrant hue when moved to a calmer setting in an aquarium at home. The species is not equipped with barbels, which function as feelers close to the mouth or nasal cavity, as do other barbs.
Tankmates
The Ruby Barbs can be considered schooling fish and should keep in groups of 8 or more. They are more nippy than barbs of the tiger and are ideal to be kept in aquariums for communities together with other peaceful fish. Tetras as well as other barbs catfish, danios and gouramis can be protected by barbs made of ruby. Livebearers can also be excellent tank companions. Ruby barbs provide a pleasing visual contrast against the clusters of other vertically-striped barbs, like barbs from tigers.
Black Ruby Barb Habitat and Care
The wild red barb is found in slower-moving streams of the forest which are shaded by dense vegetation. Birds Of Virginia The water is acidic and soft and the bottom of the stream is sand-like with the sand covered by mulm (organic debris). The idea of replicating these conditions in an aquarium is the ideal way to go.
Maintain the temperature of the water in the 72-79 degree Fahrenheit zone and utilize floating plants to reduce the light. Utilize small pieces of sand for the substrate, preferring in darker shades. Live-planted tanks are ideal but artificial plants could suffice. A swimming area that is open to the sun is required and numerous hiding spots. Ruby barbs can become dull in appearance and tense if there are no places to hide that ensure they feel safe.
