Garra bispinosa

Family: Cyprinidae

Garra bispinosa — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 9.6–14.1 cm; keep at 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 18–26 °C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH hardness: 5–15 dGH
Adult length: 9.6–14.1 cm
Minimum tank: 239 L
Water layer: Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species: Garra bispinosa lives bottom-dwelling over gravel. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Adults reach 9.6–14.1 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Garra species we profile, alongside Garra orientalis, Garra imberba, Garra qiaojiensis.

Native biotope

Habitat: Clear streams and rivers over gravel
Flow: Moderate, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂: Appreciates well-oxygenated water

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate: Fine gravel and sand
Hardscape: Water-worn stones and driftwood
Plants: Hardy rooted plants along the margins

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling: Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more
Diet: Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with: Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism: Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method: Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Garra bispinosa easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.

What temperature and water chemistry does Garra bispinosa need?

Aim for 18–26 °C. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin; 18–26 °C typical for the genus.

How big does Garra bispinosa get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 9.6–14.1 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 239 litres.

What does Garra bispinosa eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Garra bispinosa live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Garra bispinosa come from?

Found in clear streams and rivers over gravel; expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Garra bispinosa jump?

Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.

How does Garra bispinosa breed?

Egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.