Royal Farlowella Catfish – Sturisomaticht

Attributes: Royal Farlowella Catfish – Sturisomaticht
Short Description: The Royal Farlowella Catfish, also known as Sturisomaticht, is a unique and fascinating addition to any aquarium. With its distinctive appearance and peaceful nature, this catfish is sure to captivate fish enthusiasts.

Product Categories: Catfish, Fish, Snail

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Product Description:

Scientific and Common Names: The Royal Farlowella Catfish, scientifically known as Sturisomatichthys aureus, is also commonly referred to as Sturisomaticht.

Habitat: Native to the rivers and streams of South America, particularly in the Amazon basin, the Royal Farlowella Catfish thrives in freshwater environments with moderate to strong water flow.

Tank Setup: To provide a suitable habitat for the Royal Farlowella Catfish, it is recommended to have a tank with a minimum capacity of 20 gallons. The tank should be well-filtered with a moderate water flow and plenty of hiding spots such as driftwood, rocks, and plants. It is important to maintain stable water parameters, including a temperature range of 72-79°F (22-26°C) and a pH level of 6.5-7.5.

Diet and Nutrition: The Royal Farlowella Catfish is primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae and biofilm that naturally grows in the aquarium. Supplement their diet with sinking algae wafers, blanched vegetables such as zucchini or cucumber, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms.

Size and Growth Rate: When fully grown, the Royal Farlowella Catfish can reach a size of around 6-8 inches (15-20 cm). They have a slow growth rate and may take several years to reach their maximum size.

Behavioral Traits: This catfish species is peaceful and non-aggressive, making it suitable for community aquariums. They are primarily bottom-dwellers and spend most of their time grazing on surfaces for food. The Royal Farlowella Catfish is known for its unique appearance, with a long and slender body, flattened abdomen, and a distinct pattern of bony plates along its body.

Care Level: The Royal Farlowella Catfish is relatively easy to care for, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Regular water changes, proper filtration, and a well-maintained tank environment are essential for their well-being.

Breeding and Reproduction: Breeding the Royal Farlowella Catfish in captivity can be challenging. They are egg-layers and require specific conditions, including soft and slightly acidic water, to trigger spawning. Providing suitable spawning sites such as broad-leaved plants or flat surfaces can encourage breeding behavior.

Health and Disease Prevention: Maintaining good water quality and a balanced diet is crucial for the overall health of the Royal Farlowella Catfish. Regular observation for signs of disease, such as abnormal behavior, loss of appetite, or physical abnormalities, is important. Quarantining new fish before introducing them to the main tank can help prevent the spread of diseases.

Optimal Water Conditions: The Royal Farlowella Catfish thrives in water with a temperature range of 72-79°F (22-26°C), a pH level of 6.5-7.5, and a hardness of 2-15 dGH.

Lifespan: With proper care, the Royal Farlowella Catfish can live for 5-8 years or even longer.

Additional Interesting Facts:
1. The Royal Farlowella Catfish is known for its ability to camouflage itself by mimicking the appearance of a stick or branch, helping it blend into its natural environment.
2. They have a unique feeding behavior where they use their mouthparts to scrape algae off surfaces, resembling a vacuum cleaner.
3. The bony plates along their body provide protection against potential predators.
4. The Royal Farlowella Catfish is a peaceful species and can be kept with other peaceful fish species that share similar water requirements.
5. They are generally nocturnal, becoming more active during the night and resting during the day.