Garra Rufa (Garra rufa)

Garra Rufa, often called the “Doctor Fish,” is a peaceful and active freshwater fish that’s always on the move. These unique fish spend their days grazing on algae, biofilm, and other natural growth while exploring every inch of the aquarium. Their playful personality and constant activity make them a fun addition to community tanks.

Although they’re famous for their use in fish spas, Garra Rufa are excellent aquarium fish that thrive in clean, well-oxygenated water with plenty of rocks and driftwood to explore.

Why people love Garra Rufa:
• Active and entertaining personality
• Constantly grazes on algae and biofilm
• Peaceful and community-friendly
• Great for aquariums with rocks and driftwood
• Hardy and easy to care for
• Always on the move

Care Info:

Scientific Name: Garra rufa
Common Names: Garra Rufa, Doctor Fish, Red Garra
Temperament: Peaceful
Adult Size: About 5–6 inches
Tank Size: 30 gallons or larger
Temperature: 68–82°F
pH: 6.5–8.0
Diet: Omnivore
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly

Garra Rufa enjoy aquariums with moderate to strong water flow, smooth rocks, driftwood, and plenty of places to explore. They appreciate clean, oxygen-rich water and can be kept with most peaceful community fish. While they spend much of the day grazing on algae and biofilm, they should still be offered a balanced diet.

Feed high-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, Repashy foods, and frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. A varied diet will keep them healthy and active.

Shipping Info:

We ship fish on Monday and Tuesday so they arrive quickly and safely. Orders usually arrive Wednesday or Thursday.

All fish are packed carefully with insulation and heat or cold packs when needed.

Live arrival is guaranteed as long as someone is available to receive the package on the first delivery attempt.

Availability: We do our best to keep our inventory up to date, but quantities available are subject to change without notice. If we’re unable to fulfill part of your order, we’ll automatically refund the difference.

Color and size may vary depending on age and natural variation.