Panda Garra

The Panda Garra is a very beautiful and peaceful biofilm and algae grazer that is very hardy and active!

The Panda Garra (Garra flavatra), is a very peaceful and beautifully-marked fish that is excellent for tanks with high water flow. In the aquarium, this fish is an interesting scavenger and grazer that is compatible with a variety of tankmates.

A member of the loach family, the Panda Garra inhabits subtropical and tropical mountain regions of Western Myanmar.  It requires very oxygen-rich, fast-flowing water and will often swim directly against the current of a filter output or powerhead.  Very fast water flow is a key to success in keeping this fish.  Another key to success is a secure lid or canopy on the aquarium, as this fish is a skilled jumper and climber. It is compatible with other peaceful fish and invertebrates, although extreme caution should be used if attempting to keep it with dwarf shrimp.

The Panda Garra will graze on biofilm that grows on driftwood, rocks, and plants, so it is an excellent inhabitant for well-lit planted aquariums.  It will also eat many fresh fruits and vegetables sparingly and should also be supplemented with meaty foods, both dry and frozen.  Biofilm is essential to its diet, so the Panda Garra should not be added to new or biologically immature aquariums. Bacter AE and plenty of high lighting will assure high biofilm growth for this very entertaining fish.