Haseman's Twig Catfish

Farlowella hasemani commemorates John D. Haseman, the American ichthyologist who explored South American river systems in the early 20th century and collected the type specimen. This species inhabits the upper Madeira River drainage in Bolivia and bordering Brazil, a region of warm, moderately soft rivers draining the Brazilian Shield and Andean foothills.

This is a species that appears only sporadically in the hobby, usually via targeted specialist imports from Bolivia. Its care requirements align closely with other Farlowella — clean, soft water, abundant driftwood, and a well-established tank with a mature biofilm for grazing. Its modest size of 15 cm makes it suitable for somewhat smaller aquariums than the largest Farlowella species.

Keepers who obtain this species should be prepared for an extended settling period. Farlowella hasemani is among the shyer members of the genus and may remain motionless on driftwood for extended periods before becoming active. Patience and stable conditions are the keys to long-term success.

Water: 22–27°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderate (GH 2–12); Madeira-type clean, warm conditions. Tank: 80 L minimum; ample driftwood; plant cover to reduce open-water stress. Feeding: Algae wafers, spirulina tablets, blanched vegetables; biofilm grazing on settling. Breeding: Standard Farlowella; male guards eggs; fry accept fine algae and microworms. Compatibility: Peaceful; small tetras, small cichlids, Otocinclus ideal tankmates.