Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Peaceful

Live Plant Safe: Yes

General Description: The Royal Stickfish, also known as the Royal Farlowella Catfish or Whiptail Catfish, is native to rivers in South America though some Royal stickfish are now being successfully captive-bred! The Royal stickfish is primarily brown with mottling of lighter patches, but this species is most well known for its unique thin and twig like body shape with streamer extensions on its caudal fin. A very peaceful and rather hardy fish, the Royal stickfish makes a great addition to the freshwater community aquarium to help control algae and to also add that “wow” factor. Royal stickfish aren’t extremely social, so only one is recommended per aquarium. An adult Royal stickfish can reach a size of approximately 8″.

Diet Requirements: In the wild Royal stickfish are omnivores, but more emphasis should be put on providing plenty of fresh and staple food options that have a good percentage of vegetable content. A diet made up of various high quality protein based and vegetable or Spirulina based flake foods, sinking pellet foods, frozen foods (e.g., bloodworms, brine shrimp) and algae wafers (occasional) are ideal. Offering blanched pieces of zucchini, or raw romaine lettuce, would be an appreciated treat. Protein items should be fed sparingly, only once or twice a week. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 20 gallon aquarium is ideal for a Royal stickfish. The tank may need to be upgraded as it grows to its full adult size. Royal stickfish should not be added into a biologically immature aquariun because they are not very tolerant of nitrite or ammonia. Weekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters up to standard for this species (Nitrates < 30 ppm). Given their natural habitat, Royal stickfish prefer a very well oxygenated environment and generous water movement. The aquarium should be aquascaped with rocks and driftwood for coverage and places to hide. Royal stickfish are live plant safe, but some plants (namely thin-leaved and larger-leaved) may procure accidental damage. Royal stickfish rarely conflict with other fish but can be territorial with conspecifics and other similarily-shaped fish. A Royal stickfish should not be put into semi-aggressive or aggressive tanks. Recommended water conditions, 72-82° F, KH 6-10, pH 6.5-7.5.

Purchase Size: Medium: 3” to 3-1/2”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.