Garra poecilura

Family: Cyprinidae

Garra poecilura — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 3.4–5 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
3.4–5 cm
Minimum tank
30 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Garra poecilura is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 3.4–5 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: 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 poecilura easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Garra poecilura need?

Set the heater to 18–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

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

Adults reach 3.4–5 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 30 litres.

What does Garra poecilura eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Garra poecilura 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 poecilura come from?

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

Does Garra poecilura jump?

Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.

How does Garra poecilura breed?

In the aquarium: egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.