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Garra

1K views 4 replies 3 participants last post by  Kelso 
#1 · (Edited)
So these little fish have really caught my eye as of late. Can anyone offer me some suggestions and info as to species available, temperament and habits? My water is soft and acidic and I keep all my tanks above 82 degrees...so if that's a game stopper, lemme know now please!
 
#2 ·
Which species are you hoping to get? It depends a whole lot on the species you get. Their temperament varies although I prefer Garra flavatra as they are by far one of the most colorful garras with a very peaceful personality. Size ranges from 3-5 inches again depending on the species and they will appreciate even commercial pellets as their staple. Ideal temperature is 72-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
 
#3 ·
Any garra species is attractive in my eyes. I just like the way they look in general, I do like flavatra though, theyre so cute! Do they eat algae of the sides of the tank and do you think they would do well in my 87 degree dwarf puffer tank? I think one would be fine and wouldn't over stock it, but I am worried about my puffers being aggressive toward it.
 
#4 ·
Sorry, but IMO that is WAY to warm for garras. They prefer it on the cool side, I would start to worry above 82 degrees. I currently have 6 flavatra they are one of my favorite fish. This species really needs to be kept in groups as they are very social. Mine are in a unheated tank, temp fluctuates from 75-70. I've kept them at 80 with no problems, but I feel they would prefer the cooler temps. They should also have a moderate to strong current in the tank to keep them happy.

They won't do much for your algae. The only stuff I've seen them eat is brown algae, they don't eat any of the other kinds. They love algae wafers and even bloodworms.

They are really cute and funny fish though. They will clean your arms/hands (if kept in groups). They are always following each other and playing around. Other they will jump on each other and other fish. They can climb up the side of the glass, mine have no issue going over half way out of the water. Cutest thing is that at night they all pile together, usually all of them are in a 5"x5" square in the front corner of the tank. They love currents they can sit right on the filter output like its nothing.
 
#5 ·
OMG...that makes me want them even more!!!!!!!!! Aww man...maybe I'll set up a species only tank for them one day!
 
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