null
Garra Rufa

Garra Rufa

Posted by Max Gandara on on 13th Jul 2025

Garra Rufa – The Famous "Dr. Fish" of Aquariums & Spas

Among the many fascinating fish in the aquarium world, few have gained as much public attention as the Garra Rufa, also known as “Doctor Fish”. Renowned for their gentle nibbling behavior used in spa therapy and loved by aquarists for their hardy nature and algae-eating habits, these small fish are both helpful and captivating.

? Species Overview

  • Common Name: Dr. Fish, Reddish Log Sucker

  • Scientific Name: Garra rufa

  • Origin: Middle East – rivers and streams of Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and Iran

  • Size: Up to 3 inches

  • Lifespan: 4–6 years

  • Temperament: Peaceful and social

  • Diet: Omnivorous grazer

  • Tank Level: Bottom-dweller

? Natural Cleaners – In More Ways Than One

Garra Rufa made global headlines for their use in fish spas, where they gently exfoliate dead skin from human feet. While that practice is controversial in some places, it demonstrates the fish's natural grazing behavior. In home aquariums, this translates to constant foraging on algae, biofilm, and leftover food—making them excellent cleanup crew members.

? Aquarium Behavior & Tank Mates

Garra Rufa are social fish that do best in small groups. They’re peaceful but can get a little competitive over food or territory if kept in tight quarters. Their activity and curiosity make them enjoyable to watch as they explore their surroundings.

Compatible Tank Mates:

  • Tetras

  • Rasboras

  • Corydoras

  • Loaches

  • Livebearers

  • Peaceful barbs

Avoid aggressive or overly large tankmates that may harass them.

? Ideal Tank Setup

  • Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a small group

  • Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

  • Décor: Driftwood, smooth rocks, caves, and live plants

  • Water Parameters:

    • Temperature: 72–82°F

    • pH: 6.5–7.5

    • Hardness: 5–15 dGH

  • Filtration: Moderate to strong current preferred

  • Lighting: Moderate (enough to encourage algae growth but not overdo it)

They enjoy environments that mimic shallow riverbeds, with smooth surfaces to graze on and enough hiding places to feel secure.

?️ Diet & Feeding

Though they’re great grazers, Garra Rufa need a varied diet to stay healthy. Offer a mix of:

  • Algae wafers

  • Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, cucumber)

  • Spirulina-based pellets

  • Protein foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp (occasionally)

Feeding a balanced diet will help maintain their energy levels, vibrant color, and overall well-being.

? Fun Fact: Not All "Dr. Fish" Are Created Equal

Garra Rufa are often mistaken for similar-looking species like Garra sp. Flavatra, Garra gotyla, or even Chinese Algae Eaters—but those may differ significantly in temperament and care needs.

If you're interested in keeping Dr. Fish in an aquarium, make sure you're getting the true Garra Rufa from a trusted source—like Petzonesd.com.

❤️ Why Aquarists Love Garra Rufa

✅ Peaceful & beginner-friendly
✅ Unique social behavior
✅ Constant grazers that help with algae
✅ A fun and interactive addition to community tanks

Looking to add something both functional and fascinating to your aquarium?
Explore our selection of Garra Rufa (Dr. Fish) at Petzonesd.com and bring home one of nature’s gentlest grazers!