Royal Farlowella

Royal Farlowella key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

8-10 years

Size

18-20cm

Temperature

25〜29℃

Diet

Algae, vegetable matter such as spirulina and greens, and sinking wafers

Tank

It reaches 20cm standard length and needs width to match its elongated body. Add driftwood branches, vertical twigs and slender plant stems for it to rest against, and keep the water well aerated.

Water Temperature & Quality

FishBase gives 25-29C, pH 6.0-8.0 and 5-19dH. It reacts badly to sudden changes, so make small, frequent water changes.

Tank Mates

It is a quiet, plant-grazing bottom fish, so choose tankmates that will not outcompete it at feeding time.

Diet & Feeding

Largely herbivorous. Besides algae, offer spirulina tablets, blanched spinach and cucumber. A diet dominated by meaty foods does not suit it.

Breeding & Spawning

Captive breeding has rarely been recorded, so aim first for stable long-term keeping in a tank with driftwood and vertical twigs, using small, frequent water changes.

Health & Notes

The IUCN assesses it as Data Deficient and it is not listed by CITES. It is also sold under the old name Sturisoma aureum, so watch for inconsistent scientific names when buying.

About Royal Farlowella

Royal Farlowella is a medium-sized catfish with golden coloring and a long snout. This gentle, algae-eating species is sensitive to sudden water changes and low oxygen, making it best suited to intermediate keepers.

7 things to know before welcoming a Royal Farlowella

1. 1A Tank With Hiding Spots

   Royal Farlowella is a shy fish that prefers to stay tucked away in cover. Driftwood and rockwork arrangements help it feel secure and settled.

2. 2Sensitive to Sudden Changes

   This fish can be stressed by abrupt shifts in water parameters or pH. Perform water changes gradually and in small amounts.

3. 3Needs Good Oxygenation

   It's sensitive to low oxygen levels, so adequate aeration and filtration are essential. It also tends to prefer tanks with some water flow.

4. 4Mostly an Algae Eater

   This fish feeds primarily on algae. If your tank doesn't have much algae, supplement its diet with sinking foods that contain plant matter.

5. 5Peaceful Tankmate

   It rarely shows aggression and gets along well with most tankmates. Just watch for occasional competition over limited hiding spots.

6. 6Best for Intermediate Keepers

   This species is generally considered suitable for intermediate keepers. It calls for some prior experience with water quality management.

7. 7Plan for Adult Size

   Adults grow to about 18-20 cm. Make sure your tank has enough length and driftwood to comfortably accommodate its elongated body.

Frequently asked questions about Royal Farlowella

Q.What is the Royal Farlowella's temperament like?

A.It's a gentle, shy fish that tends to spend most of its time hiding in cover. It rarely shows aggression toward other fish.

Q.Can it be kept with other fish?

A.Yes, its gentle temperament makes it suitable for community tanks. Just provide multiple hiding spots to avoid competition over shelter.

Q.What should I feed it?

A.As an algae-eating species, it does best with a diet centered on algae along with sinking foods that contain plant matter.

Q.Is it suitable for beginners?

A.It's generally considered suitable for intermediate keepers rather than beginners, so some experience with water quality management is recommended.

Q.What should I watch out for in the tank?

A.It's sensitive to sudden water quality changes and low oxygen levels, so consistent, gentle water changes and stable filtration and aeration are important.

Useful tools for Royal Farlowella care

Learn more about Royal Farlowella in the encyclopedia

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