Doctor Fish

Garra rufa is native to the river basins of Turkey, Syria, Jordan, and Iran, where it inhabits warm to cool springs, rivers, and streams with rocky substrates and clear water rich in biofilm and algae. It is perhaps the most widely known Garra species thanks to its use in 'fish spa' treatments, where its nibbling of skin cells is exploited for therapeutic purposes. In the aquarium it plays a practical and pleasing role as a tireless algae and biofilm grazer.

In captivity, Doctor Fish adapt to a surprisingly broad range of conditions, tolerating temperatures from cool (15°C) to warm tropical (28°C) and pH from slightly acidic to alkaline. They are social fish that do well in groups of four or more, becoming more confident and active when not isolated. A tank with smooth rocks, moderate current, and good water quality replicates their stream habitat.

Garra rufa grazes constantly on surfaces and algae wafers. Supplementary feeding with spirulina tablets, blanched vegetables, and occasional frozen invertebrates maintains it in good condition. It is peaceful toward all tankmates and is entirely safe in planted aquariums where it focuses its grazing on surfaces rather than plant leaves.

Water: 15–28°C, pH 6.5–8.0; broadly adaptable to a wide range of water conditions. Tank: 80 L minimum; smooth rocks and wood for grazing; moderate to strong current. Feeding: Herbivore/grazer; algae wafers, spirulina, blanched vegetables, biofilm; supplements with frozen invertebrates. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; rarely bred in home aquaria; has been propagated in ponds. Compatibility: Very peaceful; suitable with virtually all community fish; safe in planted tanks.