The Royal Farlowella Catfish, also known as the Twig Catfish, is an elegant and highly unique freshwater species prized for its slender, stick-like body, elongated snout, and calm demeanor. Perfect for planted and natural-style aquariums, this species blends seamlessly into driftwood and branches, adding subtle beauty and fascinating behavior rather than bold color. Its unusual appearance makes it a standout choice for aquarists who appreciate rare and refined fish.
We ship Royal Farlowella Catfish at approximately 3–4 inches, a well-established juvenile to sub-adult size that adapts well to stable aquariums. Adults typically reach 6–7 inches, remaining peaceful and unobtrusive while providing light algae-grazing benefits.
Royal Farlowella Catfish thrive in mature, well-oxygenated aquariums with excellent water quality. They prefer tanks with driftwood, smooth branches, live plants, and gentle water flow, which mimic their natural habitat. Because of their calm nature and sensitivity to poor water conditions, they are best suited for aquarists with stable, established tanks.
Temperature: 72–80°F (22–27°C)
pH: 6.0–7.5
GH: 2–12
KH: 1–8
Tank Size: 30+ gallons recommended
While they will graze on biofilm and soft algae, Royal Farlowella Catfish require supplemental feeding. A proper diet includes algae wafers, sinking vegetable-based foods, blanched zucchini or cucumber, and occasional protein-based foods. Ensuring food reaches the bottom is important, as they are slow and gentle feeders.
Breeding is possible in home aquariums with excellent water quality and stable conditions. Eggs are typically laid on flat surfaces such as driftwood or tank glass, where the male guards them until hatching. Due to their sensitivity, breeding attempts are best made in species-focused setups.
Scientific Name: Farlowella sp.
Common Name: Royal Farlowella Catfish, Twig Catfish
Shipping Size: ~3–4 inches
Adult Size: ~6–7 inches
Temperament: Peaceful, shy
Swimming Level: Bottom to mid-water
Diet: Algae, biofilm, vegetable-based sinking foods
Tank Size: 30+ gallons
Lifespan: 5–8 years with proper care
With its graceful form, peaceful temperament, and natural camouflage, the Royal Farlowella Catfish is an exceptional addition to planted aquariums and biotope setups. Ideal for aquarists seeking something truly different, this species offers quiet beauty and fascinating behavior without disrupting tank harmony.
The Royal Farlowella Catfish, also known as the Twig Catfish, is an elegant and highly unique freshwater species prized for its slender, stick-like body, elongated snout, and calm demeanor. Perfect for planted and natural-style aquariums, this species blends seamlessly into driftwood and branches, adding subtle beauty and fascinating behavior rather than bold color. Its unusual appearance makes it a standout choice for aquarists who appreciate rare and refined fish.
We ship Royal Farlowella Catfish at approximately 3–4 inches, a well-established juvenile to sub-adult size that adapts well to stable aquariums. Adults typically reach 6–7 inches, remaining peaceful and unobtrusive while providing light algae-grazing benefits.
Royal Farlowella Catfish thrive in mature, well-oxygenated aquariums with excellent water quality. They prefer tanks with driftwood, smooth branches, live plants, and gentle water flow, which mimic their natural habitat. Because of their calm nature and sensitivity to poor water conditions, they are best suited for aquarists with stable, established tanks.
Temperature: 72–80°F (22–27°C)
pH: 6.0–7.5
GH: 2–12
KH: 1–8
Tank Size: 30+ gallons recommended
While they will graze on biofilm and soft algae, Royal Farlowella Catfish require supplemental feeding. A proper diet includes algae wafers, sinking vegetable-based foods, blanched zucchini or cucumber, and occasional protein-based foods. Ensuring food reaches the bottom is important, as they are slow and gentle feeders.
Breeding is possible in home aquariums with excellent water quality and stable conditions. Eggs are typically laid on flat surfaces such as driftwood or tank glass, where the male guards them until hatching. Due to their sensitivity, breeding attempts are best made in species-focused setups.
Scientific Name: Farlowella sp.
Common Name: Royal Farlowella Catfish, Twig Catfish
Shipping Size: ~3–4 inches
Adult Size: ~6–7 inches
Temperament: Peaceful, shy
Swimming Level: Bottom to mid-water
Diet: Algae, biofilm, vegetable-based sinking foods
Tank Size: 30+ gallons
Lifespan: 5–8 years with proper care
With its graceful form, peaceful temperament, and natural camouflage, the Royal Farlowella Catfish is an exceptional addition to planted aquariums and biotope setups. Ideal for aquarists seeking something truly different, this species offers quiet beauty and fascinating behavior without disrupting tank harmony.
