Fin's Fish Guide
The Tana garra (Garra tana) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The Tana garra is an algae eater (Cyprinidae) from fast-flowing, clear fresh water of the Lake Tana region of Ethiopia in East Africa. The species grows to about 10 cm and has an elongate, brownish body with an inferior mouth whose lower lip is modified into a sucker disc, with which it clings to stones in strong current and rasps off algae. As a bottom-dweller it lives in clear mountain streams and eats algae, biofilm, detritus and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tana garra?
The Tana garra has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Sucker disc on the lower lip to attach to stones and graze algae; endemic (VU) to the Lake Tana basin.
Where does the Tana garra live?
The Tana garra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Endemic to the Lake Tana basin in Ethiopia.
How big does the Tana garra get?
The Tana garra grows to a maximum of about 11 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Tana garra dangerous to humans?
No, the Tana garra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Tana garra edible?
The Tana garra is not usually eaten.
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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 Tana garra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tana garra is one of 12,519 species in the app.