Twig catfish - Farlowella vittata

Scientific name: Farlowella vittata

Common name: Twig catfish

Family: Loricariidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 12 - 15 cm (4.72 - 5.91 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 3 - 8°N (53.57 - 142.86ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 24 - 26 °C (75.2 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and feeding

Ensuring that this fish does not die prematurely means supplying algae in its diet. Algae wafers and sinking pellets must be given. Treats of zucchini and cucumber are also relished.

Origin

South America; Twig catfish inhabits the rivers and tributaries of the Amazon.

Sexing

When mature the males will have a broader snout with tiny bristles on it.

Breeding

Twig catfish will always spawn at night or the early morning; about 30-60 eggs will be laid, either on the tank glass or the aquarium décor. The eggs should hatch after 10 days and the male will protect both eggs and fry from predators. Dim the lighting during the spawning process.

Lifespan

It is believed that Twig catfish can live for up to 15 years, this is rarely achieved in the aquarium.

Short description

This species of fish is not a beginner’s fish; Farlowella vittata demand the highest quality water, along with careful feeding to keep them alive. They remain motionless for most of the time, blending in with bog wood for camouflage.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.