Garra Rufa

Garra Rufa (Garra Rufa)

Care level: Easy
Max Size: 14cm
Diet: Omnivore
Temp: 16-24°C
PH: 6.2 - 8.0
Purchase size: 3-4cm+

Garras are a well know species that used to be used in beauty spas to remove dead skin from feet. Today this is no longer practiced in the UK as it was considered an unhygienic way to get a foot spa, and unnecessarily cruel to the fish.

In the aquarium, the garra will rasp biofilm and some algae. The tank should be at least 100L as the fish gets surprisingly large. The addition of smooth rocks and bog wood will help produce vital biofilm for the fish to graze. Strong lighting will encourage algae growth, also necessary for keeping this species. The Garra really appreciates a strong current, making them an ideal tank mate for other rapid water species such as rainbow shiners and denison barbs. Garras are fairly peaceful towards other species, but can be territorial towards their own kind. It is recommended that in a large aquarium, groups of 6 or more specimens be housed together. Smaller numbers tend to squabble a lot more and can be prone to one fish being singled out to bear the brunt of the aggression. The aquarium should contain plenty of visual barriers such as rocks, bog wood and large robust plants to help contain territorial disputes.

Food can be offered in the form of sinking wafers, both catfish and algae, as well as bloodworm, brine shrimp and other fresh or frozen meaty foods.

If you have any questions about this snail and whether it's suitable for your aquarium, please contact us and a member of our friendly tropical team will be more than happy to answer all of your questions.

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