Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

They are exceptionally docile, timid, and rely completely on staying perfectly still to avoid predators. They are charmingly cryptic and completely ignore all other tank inhabitants. They require a serene environment to feel secure enough to graze openly.

Diet

Omnivore

They are obligate herbivores that continuously rasp at biofilm and soft diatoms on wood and glass. Their diet must be supplemented with blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and high-quality algae wafers. Never feed them meaty or high-protein foods as they cannot digest them properly.

Sex ratio

Group

They are completely non-aggressive towards their own kind and can be kept in any desired sex ratio. A small group of three or four is highly entertaining if the tank provides enough grazing area. Males may occasionally display towards each other, but no injuries occur.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Food should ideally be available at all times due to their slow, continuous grazing habits. Offering fresh vegetable slices at dusk allows them to feed without interference from daytime tank mates. Ensure any decaying vegetables are removed the following day.

Bioload

The Twig catfish adds a very modest bioload to the aquarium ecosystem. Because they graze constantly, their waste is continuous but extremely minimal. Pristine, highly oxygenated water conditions are strictly necessary, requiring excellent biological filtration and regular maintenance.

Flow

Stagnant

They prefer a steady, moderate flow that ensures high dissolved oxygen levels without overpowering them. A calm, riverine environment with gentle circulation is highly recommended. Using an air stone can help boost oxygenation without creating stressful, turbulent currents.

Reproduction

Oviparous

They are one of the more commonly bred Farlowella species in home aquaria. The male vigorously cleans a vertical surface, usually the glass, where the female lays her eggs. The male diligently fans and guards the clutch until the fry emerge.

Compatibility & tankmates

They are the epitome of peacefulness and must be kept with similarly docile, small community fish. Keeping them with aggressive, fin-nipping, or fast-swimming bottom feeders will quickly lead to starvation and stress. They are entirely safe to house with dwarf ornamental shrimp.

Tank level

Middle/Bottom

They are structural dwellers that spend their days vertically attached to plants, heater tubes, or driftwood. They do not generally swim in the open water column, preferring to move by short hops along surfaces. Tall, broad-leaved plants and vertical branches are highly appreciated.