Species profile
Royal Farlowella
Sturisomatichthys panamensis
Peaceful
Moderate care
250 L minimum aquarium
18–26 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 2
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Accepted name updated from Sturisoma panamense to Sturisomatichthys panamensis.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–30 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH
2–15 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: 2
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
None
Bioload factor
2
Peaceful; pairs or small groups can be maintained if adequate floor space and feeding opportunities are provided.
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
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
250 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Sturisomatichthys panamensis
Alternative names
Sturisoma panamense, Royal Whiptail
Native range
Central America, principally Panama and adjacent trans-Andean drainages.
Natural habitat
Mature river-style aquarium with sand, wood/rock cover, algae/biofilm surfaces, clean oxygenated water and moderate current.
Diet & feeding
Plant/algae foods and detritus with regular small invertebrate foods and balanced sinking tablets/granules.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males develop prominent cheek odontodes ('sideburns'); females lack the dense odontode growth.
Breeding
Adhesive eggs are laid on a vertical/open surface and guarded/fanned by the male until hatching.