Our Guide To Keeping Twig Catfish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Farlowella vittata
   • Common name: Twig Catfish
   • Family: Loricariidae
   • Origin: South America (Amazon River basin)
   • Adult length: Up to 15 cm
   • Lifespan: 5 to 8 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Twig Catfish prefer a tank with plenty of hiding spots and driftwood to mimic their natural habitat. Provide a sandy substrate and avoid sharp decorations to prevent injury.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Twig Catfish thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
   • Maintain the water temperature between 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A gentle to moderate water flow is suitable for Twig Catfish. Choose a filter that provides adequate filtration without creating strong currents.

5. Diet:

   • Twig Catfish are primarily herbivores. Offer them a diet rich in vegetable matter such as algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber), and sinking pellets.
   • Supplement their diet with occasional protein-rich foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia.

6. Tank mates:

   • Twig Catfish are peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive species that inhabit similar water parameters. Suitable tank mates include peaceful tetras, rasboras, small peaceful cichlids, and other catfish species.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Twig Catfish are nocturnal and prefer to hide during the day. Provide plenty of hiding spots among plants and decor to make them feel secure.
   • They are peaceful towards tank mates but may be territorial towards their own kind, especially during breeding.