Garra Gotyla (Garra gotyla) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 40 gallons and 65-77°F. A rock-clinging algae grazer that uses a sucker-like mouth. It likes cooler, well-oxygenated, moderate-flow water and does best in a mature tank with algae-covered rock.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Garra gotyla |
|---|---|
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Origin | Rivers and streams of India and the Himalayan foothills |
| Adult size | 4-6 in |
| Minimum tank | 40 gallons |
| Temperature | 65-77°F |
| pH | 6.5-8.0 |
| Temperament | Peaceful, may squabble among themselves |
| Social behavior | Groups of 3+ |
| Swim level | Bottom, on rocks |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Herbivore: algae wafers, spirulina, blanched vegetables, biofilm |
| Typical lifespan | 5-8 years |
Quick tips
- Provide strong flow and plenty of oxygen.
- Offer vegetable foods and algae-covered rocks.
- Keep a group; singles can be shy.
San Diego water
Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi