Farlowella acus 10–12 cm Wild (Farlowella acus), commonly known as the twig catfish or stick catfish, is a slender, highly specialised loricariid from South America. Our specimens are wild-caught and measure 10–12 cm; as adults they reach around 15–20 cm. This demanding species is part of our freshwater range and should be kept only in mature, stable, well-planted aquariums.

Behavior and care

Farlowella acus is a very peaceful, shy and rather sedentary fish that spends most of its time attached to glass, roots or branches, mimicking a twig. It should not be combined with aggressive or boisterous tankmates that may harass it or outcompete it for food.

We recommend at least 120 litres (a long tank) for a small group, with a fully cycled filter, very clean, well-oxygenated water and minimal fluctuations. Avoid newly set-up aquariums. Use starter bacteria when cycling and monitor water values with our water tests. Perform regular but gentle water changes without sudden shifts in temperature or pH.

Diet

Farlowella acus is an aufwuchs and soft algae grazer with a mainly herbivorous diet. It feeds on soft algae, biofilm and plant material. In the aquarium, offer primarily vegetable-based wafers and tablets (spirulina, algae), supplemented with blanched vegetables (courgette/zucchini, cucumber, spinach, peas) and small amounts of protein-rich foods (finely chopped frozen foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia).

For best condition, vary the diet using our foods for herbivorous bottom fish. Feed close to the bottom and wood, preferably at dusk, so the Farlowella can feed without heavy competition.

Water parameters

• Ideal temperature: 23 – 27 °C
• pH: 6.0 – 7.5
• GH: 2 – 12 °dGH
• KH: 1 – 6 °dKH
• Conductivity: 50 – 250 µS

Farlowella are quite sensitive to nitrite spikes and high nitrate levels. Before adding the fish, treat tap water with an appropriate water conditioner. Provide efficient but not overly turbulent filtration and maintain the tank with suitable maintenance tools and weekly water changes.

Decor and environment

Set up the aquarium with a fine, smooth substrate and plenty of branchy wood, roots and elongated stones where the fish can rest and camouflage. Use lots of live plants (stem plants, Anubias, Microsorum) and optionally floating plants to soften the light.

A moderate lighting system, partially filtered by plants, will reduce stress and encourage a light growth of algae and biofilm for grazing. Add stable decorations without sharp edges.

Care sheet

AquaBota tip

Success with Farlowella acus Wild depends on a very stable, mature aquarium, excellent water quality and a mainly plant-based diet. Avoid noisy tankmates and fluctuating conditions.
Stability = success: check your parameters regularly with our water tests and perform small, regular weekly water changes.

Shipping and delivery of live fish

Fish are shipped with great care in insulated, purpose-designed packaging to ensure their safety during transport.

Delivery methods

• France Express (secure home delivery in France, Belgium and Luxembourg)
• In-store pickup in Sombreffe (Belgium)

Shipping schedule

• Order cut-off: every Monday at 10:00.
• France: shipments on Monday or Tuesday, depending on the destination department, for delivery between Tuesday and Thursday.
• Belgium and Luxembourg: shipments on Monday and Tuesday for delivery between Tuesday and Wednesday.