Species profile
Farlowella Twig Catfish
Farlowella vittata
Peaceful
Hard care
220 L minimum aquarium
18–22.5 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Can be kept singly
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
Can be kept singly
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.