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Overview: The Garra flavatra, commonly known as the Panda Garra, is a distinctive and hardy freshwater fish that adds both utility and charm to any aquarium. Known for its striking black and yellow banded pattern, this species is not only visually appealing but also serves as an effective algae eater, making it a popular choice among aquarists.
Appearance: Panda Garra are easily recognized by their bold, contrasting black and yellow bands that run across their bodies. This unique coloration gives them their "panda" moniker. They have a streamlined body shape, with a slightly flattened head and a set of specialized mouthparts that help them graze on algae and other surfaces. Adult Panda Garra typically grow up to8cm in length, making them suitable for medium to large aquariums.
Behavior: Garra flavatra are known for their active and curious nature. They are often seen foraging along the bottom of the tank, scraping algae from rocks, driftwood, and other surfaces. Although generally peaceful, they can be territorial with their own kind or similarly shaped fish, so it’s best to provide plenty of hiding spots and broken lines of sight in the aquarium. They are social and do well in small groups, where their interactions can be quite fascinating to observe.
Habitat & Care: Native to fast-flowing streams in Myanmar, Panda Garra thrive in aquariums that replicate their natural habitat. A well-oxygenated tank with strong water flow, plenty of rocks, driftwood, and hiding places is ideal. They prefer a temperature range of 20-25°C , a pH of 6.5-7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. Regular water changes are important to maintain water quality, as they are sensitive to deteriorating conditions.
Diet: In the wild, Panda Garra feed primarily on algae and biofilm. In captivity, they should be provided with a varied diet that includes algae wafers, blanched vegetables like zucchini and spinach, and high-quality sinking pellets. Supplementing their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp will ensure they receive the necessary nutrients.
Compatibility: Panda Garra are generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tank mates, including other peaceful community fish. However, their territorial behavior should be considered when housing them with other bottom dwellers. Suitable tank mates include other Garra species, loaches, barbs, and fast-moving mid-water fish. Avoid pairing them with slow-moving or long-finned fish, as they may become targets for harassment.
Breeding: Breeding Panda Garra in captivity is challenging and not commonly reported. They are egg scatterers, and breeding attempts are more likely to succeed in a species-only tank with optimal water conditions and plenty of hiding spots. Observing breeding behavior may involve increased territoriality and chasing among individuals.
Conclusion: The Garra flavatra, with its striking appearance and useful algae-eating habits, is a fantastic addition to a well-maintained aquarium. While they require specific care to thrive, their active nature and social interactions make them a rewarding species for aquarists looking to add both function and beauty to their tank.
