Garra Rufa “Spa fish”

The Red Garra (Garra Rufa) goes by many common names, such as the “Spa fish” or doctor fish. Made popular by health spas in Turkey, where pools full of these fish are used for pedicures, nibbling at visitors feet. These hardy fish have an olive-to-brown body highlighted by a distinct reddish tint on their tail fins and a specialized sucking mouth. Growing up to 10–12 cm long, they are native to the river basins and springs of the Middle East.

Harder water, cooler water suits them well, and a well oxygenated tank is recommended. They are generally peaceful but if kept singly, can behave more aggressively with similarly-shaped fish. We therefore recommend the purchase of 3 or more. Keeping them in a colony helps disperse their natural energy and ensures they feel secure in the aquarium.

They are active bottom-dwellers, spending their days scouring rocks, wood, and glass for biofilm and algae. Our Garra Rufas eat normal fish food, but also enjoy algae wafers quite a bit, or those O-nip tablets you stick on the glass, they eagerly accept frozen treats like bloodworms or brine shrimp. They are best paired with other active species that won’t be bothered by their busy nature.