Longnose Twig Catfish (Farlowella gracilis)
Farlowella needle-nose (Twig) Catfish are long, slender, armored bottom-dwellers from South America, characterized by their elongated, twig-like bodies for camouflage and a pronounced rostrum (nose). They are primarily brown or olive-green with dark bands, and males develop small bristles (odontodes) on their snouts when mature, while females have smoother, thinner noses. These peaceful algae-eaters are best suited for a well-planted aquarium with driftwood, good water flow, and other peaceful tank mates.
Physical Characteristics
- Body Shape: Extremely long and slender, resembling a twig or stick for camouflage in their natural habitat.
- Nose: A pronounced rostrum (nose) that helps with foraging and provides structural definition to the fish’s appearance.
- Coloration: Primarily brown or olive-green with distinct dark bands.
- Sexual Differences: Males develop small bristles (odontodes) on their snouts when mature; females have smoother, thinner noses.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Origin | South America |
| Behavior | Peaceful, bottom-dwelling, algae-eating |
| Water Conditions | Soft, slightly acidic water; stable temperature |
| Compatibility | Best with peaceful community fish and well-planted tanks |
FAQ
What is the difference between male and female Longnose Twig Catfish?
Males develop small bristles (odontodes) on their snouts when mature, while females have smoother, thinner noses.
What kind of aquarium setup is best for Longnose Twig Catfish?
A well-planted aquarium with driftwood, good water flow, and peaceful tank mates is ideal for these fish.
Are Longnose Twig Catfish suitable for beginner aquarists?
Yes, they are peaceful and relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for beginners with a stable, planted tank environment.
Jane Fisher –
The catfish looks exactly like the picture—very slender and blends well with the driftwood. It’s peaceful and doesn’t bother other fish. I’ve had it for three months and it’s still active and healthy.
Joe Arnold –
Arrived quickly and the fish were in good condition. They seem to hide well in the plants and don’t stir much. A bit shy at first but now they’re exploring the tank regularly.
Emma Hill –
Great addition to my planted tank. The coloration is natural and they stay near the bottom where they feed on algae. No aggression, and they look beautiful in the dim lighting.
Dylan Ince –
I noticed the male has small bristles on its nose after a few weeks—matches the description. The tank setup is simple but effective with just a few plants and driftwood.
Anthony North –
Easy to care for and very calm. They don’t compete with other fish and seem to thrive in the planted environment. I’m happy with the purchase and would recommend them.