Garra panitvongi (Burmese Red Tail Garra)

Garra panitvongi

Common Name: Burmese Red Tail Garra
Origin: Ataran River Basin (Thailand-Myanmar border)
Size: Up to 11 cm
Tank Level: Bottom to mid-level
Care Level: Moderate

Species Overview

Meet the Red Tail Garra—a vibrant and active species from the fast-moving streams of Southeast Asia. Known for its striking red-orange caudal fin and distinctive V-shaped blue stripes on its snout, Garra panitvongi is a standout addition to river-style aquariums. Its unique mouth, adapted into a suction-like disc, allows it to cling to rocks and graze algae in strong currents.

This species has long been favored in the aquarium trade for its algae-eating behavior, and was only formally described in 2016. The species name panitvongi honors Thai conservationist Nonn Panitvong, in recognition of his dedication to freshwater biodiversity.

Appearance & Behavior

• Coloration: Red-orange body with a bright red tail; pale underbelly.

• Snout Features: A pointed, flexible proboscis marked by iridescent blue lines on either side.

• Mouth Structure: Specialized lower lip forming a suction disc.

• Behavior: Active and territorial, particularly with conspecifics or similar-shaped fish. Uses facial tubercles (hardened scales) for sparring or asserting dominance.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Red Tail Garras inhabit shallow, fast-flowing mountain streams with rocky substrates and clear water. These environments are rich in algae and biofilm—their primary diet.

Aquarium Care

Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum (larger for groups)
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel with smooth stones and rocks
Aquascape: Strong flow, plenty of hiding spots, driftwood, and smooth boulders for grazing
Filtration: High-flow filtration is essential to simulate stream conditions
Lighting: Moderate to bright (encourages algae growth)

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22–26°C (72–79°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

• Flow: Strong current recommended

Diet

In the aquarium, Garra panitvongi will happily graze on algae and biofilm, providing a natural "cleaning" service. However, it should not be expected to survive on algae alone.

Recommended Diet Includes:

• Algae wafers

• Spirulina-based foods

• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)

• Frozen foods (bloodworms, daphnia)

• Sinking pellets

Avoid overfeeding with high-protein foods, as it may disrupt digestive health.

Behavior & Compatibility

Temperament: While not overtly aggressive, Red Tail Garras are territorial and may spar with tankmates—especially other bottom dwellers or similar-looking species.

Tankmates Suggestions:

• Fast-swimming schooling fish (e.g., danios, rasboras
  

• Hillstream loaches

• Plecos (avoid similarly-sized suction fish)

• Avoid slow or long-finned species

Group Size: Can be kept singly or in groups of 3–5 (only in larger tanks with space to establish territories).

Breeding

Breeding Garra panitvongi in captivity is rare and not well documented. They likely require highly oxygenated, fast-moving water and specific cues that mimic seasonal changes. No known commercial breeding practices currently exist.

Quick Facts

• Cleaning Crew: Excellent algae grazer

• Habitat Mimicry: Thrives in high-flow tanks with rocks and oxygenation

• Personality: Curious, assertive, but manageable with the right tankmates

• Origin Story: Named in honor of a conservationist and formally described after years in the trade