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Royal Farlowella Catfish (Sturisoma panamense) 3.5-4cm

$2199 CAD
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SKU: 400000004655

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Royal Farlowella Catfish (Sturisoma panamense) 3.5-4cm

Description

Royal Farlowella Catfish (Sturisoma panamense), also known as the Royal Whiptail Catfish, is a peaceful and elegant bottom-dweller prized for its unique appearance and algae-eating habits. 

Species Overview

  • Scientific Name: Sturisoma panamense
  • Common Names: Royal Whiptail Catfish, Twig Catfish, Stick Catfish, Helicopter Pleco
  • Size: 6–10 inches (15–25 cm)
  • Lifespan: Up to 10 years
  • Temperament: Peaceful, ideal for community tanks
  • Origin: Fast-flowing rivers in Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador

Tank Requirements

  • Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
  • Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
  • Decor: Driftwood, rocks, and live plants for hiding and grazing
  • Filtration: Strong filtration with gentle flow; sponge pre-filter recommended
  • Aeration: High oxygenation is essential

Water Parameters

  • Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
  • pH: 6.5–7.5
  • Hardness: 4–10 dGH
  • Nitrates: Keep below 40 ppm

Diet

  • Primary Diet: Mostly herbivorous
    • Algae
    • Biofilm (aufwuchs)
    • Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)
  • Supplemental Foods: Algae wafers, spirulina, occasional protein (bloodworms, brine shrimp)

Breeding

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Sexual Dimorphism:
    • Males have longer dorsal fins and whisker-like protrusions on the head
  • Breeding Setup:
    • Clean, stable water
    • Flat surfaces for egg-laying
    • Gentle flow and high oxygen levels

Tankmates

  • Best with peaceful species like:
    • Tetras
    • Corydoras
    • Otocinclus
    • Shrimp (though shrimplets may be at risk)
  • Avoid aggressive or overly active fish that compete for food

Behavior & Traits

  • Activity: Mostly nocturnal but can be active during the day with proper setup
  • Camouflage: Mimics driftwood; excellent at blending in
  • Social Structure: Best kept in small groups (3–5), with more females than males

Specifications
  • Category
    Catfish
  • Species Type
    Whiptail Catfish
  • Water Temperature
    72°F to 86°F
  • Minimum Tank Size
    30 Gallons
  • Water pH Level
    Acidic, Neutral
  • Habitat Preference
    Planted Tanks, Rocky Tanks, Driftwood
  • Behaviour
    Community Fish, Bottom-Dwelling, Solitary

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Royal Farlowella Catfish (Sturisoma panamense) 3.5-4cm

$2199 CAD

Royal Farlowella Catfish (Sturisoma panamense), also known as the Royal Whiptail Catfish, is a peaceful and elegant bottom-dweller prized for its unique appearance and algae-eating habits. 

Species Overview

  • Scientific Name: Sturisoma panamense
  • Common Names: Royal Whiptail Catfish, Twig Catfish, Stick Catfish, Helicopter Pleco
  • Size: 6–10 inches (15–25 cm)
  • Lifespan: Up to 10 years
  • Temperament: Peaceful, ideal for community tanks
  • Origin: Fast-flowing rivers in Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador

Tank Requirements

  • Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
  • Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
  • Decor: Driftwood, rocks, and live plants for hiding and grazing
  • Filtration: Strong filtration with gentle flow; sponge pre-filter recommended
  • Aeration: High oxygenation is essential

Water Parameters

  • Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
  • pH: 6.5–7.5
  • Hardness: 4–10 dGH
  • Nitrates: Keep below 40 ppm

Diet

  • Primary Diet: Mostly herbivorous
    • Algae
    • Biofilm (aufwuchs)
    • Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)
  • Supplemental Foods: Algae wafers, spirulina, occasional protein (bloodworms, brine shrimp)

Breeding

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Sexual Dimorphism:
    • Males have longer dorsal fins and whisker-like protrusions on the head
  • Breeding Setup:
    • Clean, stable water
    • Flat surfaces for egg-laying
    • Gentle flow and high oxygen levels

Tankmates

  • Best with peaceful species like:
    • Tetras
    • Corydoras
    • Otocinclus
    • Shrimp (though shrimplets may be at risk)
  • Avoid aggressive or overly active fish that compete for food

Behavior & Traits

  • Activity: Mostly nocturnal but can be active during the day with proper setup
  • Camouflage: Mimics driftwood; excellent at blending in
  • Social Structure: Best kept in small groups (3–5), with more females than males
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