Fin's Fish Guide
The Red garra (Garra rufa) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The doctor fish is a cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from the Middle East. The species grows to about 14 cm and has an elongate body with an inferior mouth and a fleshy sucking disc on the lower lip with which it attaches to stones. It occurs in varied waters: rivers, lakes, ponds and small muddy streams, where it shelters among and under stones and vegetation. As a bottom dweller it grazes the growth layer (aufwuchs) of algae. It is known worldwide from 'fish spas', where it nibbles dead skin flakes from people. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red garra?
The Red garra has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Fleshy sucking disc on the lower lip; known from 'fish spas', where they nibble dead skin.
Where does the Red garra live?
The Red garra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Middle East; rivers, lakes, ponds and streams.
How big does the Red garra get?
The Red garra grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Red garra dangerous to humans?
No, the Red garra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Red garra edible?
The Red garra is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Garra
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Red garra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red garra is one of 12,519 species in the app.