Doctor Fish (Garra rufa) Care Guide
Garra rufa is a hardy Middle Eastern cyprinid that grazes biofilm and is widely known from fish-spa pedicures.
Overview
Garra rufa is a small freshwater cyprinid native to river basins of the Middle East. It is a bottom-dwelling, benthopelagic species that grazes on aufwuchs — the biofilm of algae and micro-organisms growing on submerged surfaces. The species became widely known through fish-spa pedicures, where it nibbles loose skin; this use was first popularised in Kangal, Turkey, and spread internationally from 2006.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Genus: Garra
- Scientific name: Garra rufa
- Describer: Heckel, 1843
Habitat
According to FishBase, Garra rufa occurs in the Jordan, Orontes and Tigris–Euphrates river basins, as well as in some coastal rivers of southern Turkey and northern Syria. It inhabits rivers, streams, reservoirs, ponds and lakes, and tends to avoid stagnant water. The fish hides under stones and vegetation and favours clean, well-oxygenated, moving water.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 150 L
- Temperature: 18–28 °C (64–82 °F)
- pH: 7.0–8.0
- GH: 8–20 °dGH
- Group size: 5 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 4–7 years
Diet
Garra rufa is primarily a grazer. In the wild it feeds on aufwuchs, and Wikipedia also records detritus, algae, arthropods and zooplankton in its natural diet. In captivity it accepts prepared foods alongside vegetable matter and the algae film that develops on hard surfaces.
Compatibility
The species is peaceful and stays mainly near the bottom. Because it is an active grazer adapted to flowing water, it suits aquariums with moderate current and benefits from being kept in groups. Very small, delicate fish are best avoided as tank mates.
Conservation status
The IUCN Red List classifies Garra rufa as Least Concern (assessed 4 March 2013). In Turkey the species is legally protected from wild capture because of overharvesting linked to the spa trade.