Pethia nigrofasciata (Günther, 1868)
Black ruby barb
Pethia nigrofasciata
photo by Ramani Shirantha

Family:  Cyprinidae (Minnows or carps), subfamily: Smiliogastrinae
Max. size:  6 cm TL (male/unsexed); 6.7 cm TL (female)
Environment:  benthopelagic; freshwater; pH range: 6 - 6.5; dH range: 5 - 12
Distribution:  Asia: restricted to forest streams from the Kelani to Nilwala basins in Sri Lanka. It occurs in hilly areas up to about 300 m elevation. The brightly colored population introduced to Mahaweli at Ginigathena, Sri Lanka are said to have diminished in number due to the aquarium export trade.
Diagnosis:   
Biology:  Inhabits clear, cool, shady streams in forested areas, on gravel or sand substrate. Sometimes found in pools of quiet water in the margins of clear streams and rivers (Ref. 6471). Bred in captivity. Spawns in shallow water among marginal weeds. Eggs (>100) hatch in 1-2 days; fry are free-swimming after 24 h (Ref. 6702). Feeds mainly on filamentous algae and detritus (Ref. 6703). Males brightly colored and with darker fins. Popular aquarium fish. Aquarium keeping: in groups of 5 or more individuals; minimum aquarium size 80 cm (Ref. 51539).
IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable (VU); Date assessed: 07 August 2019 (B1ab(iii,v)+2ab(iii,v)) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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