Twig Catfish

Farlowella Twig Catfish (F. gracilis) are long, slender, armored bottom-dwellers from South America, characterized by their elongated, twig-like bodies for camouflage and a pronounced rostrum. They are primarily brown or olive-green with dark bands, and males develop small bristles, known as odontodes, on their snouts when mature, while females have smoother, thinner noses. These peaceful algae-eaters are best suited for a well-planted aquarium with driftwood, good water flow, and other peaceful tank mates.

 

Husbandry & Care

Temperament: Peaceful

Minimum Tank Size: 40 Gallons

Water Temperature: 75-80 °F

Water pH: 6.0-7.0

Social Group: 3+ fish

Diet: Omnivorous; Blanched vegetables (cucumber, zucchini, spinach), algae wafers, algae/biofilm, frozen brine shrimp/bloodworms.

Compatible with: Most peaceful species including Neon Tetras, Amano Shrimp, Kuhli Loaches, Corydoradinae Catfish, Bristlenose Pleco, Ember Tetra