Twig Catfish L002

Farlowella acus and related Farlowella species — collectively sold as Twig or Stick Catfish under the L002 designation — are among the most remarkably camouflaged fish in the aquarium hobby. Their extraordinarily elongated, stick-like bodies with mottled brown patterning make them near-invisible among driftwood, roots, and leaf litter. Native to slow to moderately flowing rivers across the Amazon and Orinoco basins, they graze algae and biofilm from surfaces.

Twig Catfish are delicate fish that require stable, clean water conditions and a well-planted or thickly decorated aquarium. They are sensitive to poor water quality and fluctuating parameters. Their algae-grazing diet should be supplemented with sinking algae wafers and blanched vegetables. They are entirely peaceful and will not disturb tankmates.

Breeding in captivity is achievable; males guard eggs deposited on flat surfaces. Water temperature should be kept in the cooler intermediate range of 24–28°C, and strong filtration without excessive turbulence is recommended.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft and well-filtered; moderate flow with no strong turbulence. Tank: Minimum 80 L; abundant driftwood, leaf litter, and plants to provide cover and grazing surfaces. Feeding: Algae grazer; supplement with sinking algae wafers, blanched cucumber, spirulina tabs, and biofilm. Breeding: Egg-scatterer on flat surfaces; male guards clutch; requires pristine water and stable conditions. Compatibility: Peaceful with all similarly sized, non-aggressive community fish; avoid fin-nippers.