Garra Rufa Doctor Fish: Garra rufa – Unique Middle Eastern Native

The Garra Rufa Doctor Fish, scientifically known as Garra rufa, is a fascinating freshwater fish native to river basins in the Middle East, including Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and Iran. Its slender, olive-grey body with a reddish hue and suckermouth makes it a distinctive addition to community aquariums. Renowned for nibbling dead skin in spa treatments and grazing on biofilm, this peaceful fish is ideal for aquarists seeking a unique tank cleaner. Moreover, sourcing from captive-bred stocks is recommended due to ethical concerns in the spa trade.

Caring for Garra Rufa Doctor Fish

A tank of at least 100 litres suits the Garra Rufa Doctor Fish, featuring a fine sand or smooth gravel substrate, driftwood, and rocks to promote biofilm growth. For instance, maintain water conditions with a pH of 6.5–8.0, a temperature of 15–28°C, and moderate to fast water flow with high oxygenation. Additionally, bright lighting encourages algae growth, and a secure lid is essential, as these fish may jump. Weekly 20–30% water changes and a robust canister filter maintain water quality.

Ideal Tank Mates

This species thrives in groups of 5–6 with peaceful, fast-moving fish like rasboras, danios, or barbs, which occupy higher tank levels. However, avoid slow-moving fish like guppies or discus, as their active feeding may outcompete them. They may squabble with their own kind in smaller tanks, so provide visual barriers. Furthermore, hardy plants like Anubias and ample hiding spots, like rocks, reduce territorial disputes and support their active nature.

Feeding and Nutrition

As omnivores, these fish graze on biofilm, algae, and detritus but require a varied diet in captivity. For example, offer sinking algae wafers or spirulina pellets as a staple, supplemented with blanched vegetables like zucchini or cucumber. Moreover, include frozen or live foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp for protein. Feed sparingly once daily, ensuring food reaches the bottom, as they compete poorly with surface feeders. Introduce them to mature tanks with established biofilm.

Breeding Garra Rufa Doctor Fish

Breeding is challenging in home aquariums and often requires hormone stimulation. A 120-litre tank with fast-flowing water, rocks, and gravel mimics spawning conditions. Maintain water at 22–26°C and a pH of 6.5–7.5. Females scatter 100–200 eggs over substrates, with no parental care. Eggs hatch in 24–30 hours, and fry feed on yolk sacs for 72 hours before needing infusoria or liquid fry food. Separate fry to ensure survival, as adults may eat them.

FAQs About Your Fish

What tank size is ideal for these fish?
A minimum of 100 litres for a group of 5–6, larger for community setups.

Can they live with other species?
Yes, with fast-moving fish like rasboras or barbs, but avoid slow or bottom-dwelling species.

What do these fish eat?
Algae wafers, spirulina pellets, vegetables, and frozen foods like bloodworms, fed once daily.

Are these fish easy to breed?
No, breeding is difficult without hormones and requires specific conditions.

What water conditions do they need?
pH 6.5–8.0, 15–28°C, fast-flowing, highly oxygenated water with strong filtration.

Species Overview

The Garra Rufa Doctor Fish is a hardy, active fish that adds intrigue to aquariums with its biofilm-grazing and skin-nibbling behaviour. Additionally, its moderate size (up to 12–14 cm) and schooling nature make it suitable for intermediate aquarists. This species thrives in well-oxygenated, mature tanks, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical tank-cleaning benefits.

• Species: Garra rufa
• Common Name: Garra Rufa Doctor Fish, Red Garra, Nibble Fish
• Origin: Middle East (Turkey, Syria, Iraq, Iran)
• Diet: Omnivorous, biofilm-focused
• pH Range: 6.5–8.0
• Temperature: 15–28°C
• Current Size: Approximately 2–5 cm
• Max Size: Approximately 12–14 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 100 litres
• Sex: Unsexed

Order your Garra Rufa Doctor Fish today and add a unique, biofilm-eating fish to your aquarium! Live fish and aquarium products shipped Australia-wide.