Species profile
Farlowella Twig Catfish
Farlowella vittata
Peaceful
Hard care
220 L minimum aquarium
18–22.5 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 5
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A specialist slow-feeding loricariid; group husbandry and mature grazing surfaces are preferable.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
2–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 5
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
None
Predation risk
None
Bioload factor
1.8
Very peaceful and easily outcompeted by aggressive plecos or boisterous feeders.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Herbivore
Minimum aquarium volume
220 L
Minimum footprint
100 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Farlowella vittata
Alternative names
Twig Catfish
Native range
Orinoco basin and related drainages in Colombia and Venezuela.
Natural habitat
Mature planted/woody aquarium with broad surfaces carrying natural algae/biofilm, clean oxygenated water and moderate current.
Diet & feeding
Algae/biofilm and vegetable foods are central; supplement with quality sinking foods. Slow feeding makes competition a major welfare issue.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males develop stronger cheek/rostral odontodes; females are generally fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Open-surface egg layer; the male guards adhesive eggs deposited on glass, wood or broad leaves.